Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery

Research

Published January 2001

Public Attitudes TowardAging, Beauty, andCosmetic Surgery

Research

Public Attitudes TowardAging, Beauty, andCosmetic SurgeryConducted by Roper Starch Worldwide Inc.

AARP601 E Street NW

Washington, DC 20049http://research.aarp.org

© Copyright AARP, January 2001Reprinting with Permission

Acknowledgements

Roper Starch Worldwide Inc. prepared this report for My Generation and Modern Maturitymagazines under the direction of Linda L. Barrett, Ph.D. Management review of the finalreport was provided by Katharyn Marks. For more information contact Linda L. Barrett, Ph.D.,AARP Strategic Issue Research, (202) 434-6197.

AARP is the nation’s leading organization for people age 50 and older. It serves their needsand interests through information and education, advocacy, and community services which areprovided by a network of local chapters and experienced volunteers throughout the country.The organization also offers members a wide range of special benefits and services, includingModern Maturity magazine and the monthly Bulletin.

Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Introduction ................................................................................................. 1

Method Overview........................................................................................ 2

Summary Of Findings ................................................................................. 3

I. A Few Myths On Beauty And Aging Debunked ................................... 10

II. How Americans Really Feel About Physical Appearance ................... 15

III. Americans Rate Their Own Appearance............................................. 25

IV. Physical Appearance And Getting Older ............................................ 30

V. Steps Taken To Stay Attractive And Young-Looking ........................ 37

VI. Public Attitudes Toward Cosmetic Surgery........................................ 44

VII. Knowing People Who Have Had Cosmetic Surgery......................... 56

VIII. Cosmetic Surgery For Oneself ......................................................... 60

IX. Focus On Persons Who Have Had Cosmetic Surgery ........................ 72

Appendix: Survey Instruments.................................................................. 96

Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery Introduction

Page 1

Introduction

This report details the findings of a national telephone survey conducted by Roper Starch Worldwide on behalf of AARP to explore the constellation of feelings Americans have toward beauty, aging, and cosmetic surgery. In the following pages, we will share findings regarding the extent to which maintaining an attractive and youthful appearance is important to Americans—and the lengths they will go to stay attractive. We will also explore common stereotypes about beauty, particularly with regard to aging and gender. This report also captures American attitudes toward cosmetic surgery and examines the attitudes of people who either have undergone or expect to undergo a procedure some time in the future.

Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery Method Overview

Page 2

Method Overview

Phase One—The General Public Telephone interviews were conducted among a national cross-section of 2,008 Americans (age 18+) from September 11 – October 2, 2000.1 Each interview lasted 25 minutes on average. Sample was drawn from a national random digit dial (RDD) list. Data are projectible to Americans generally within a +/- 2 percentage point margin of error at the 95% confidence level. Data were weighted to correct for slight demographic imbalances arising from sampling error. The margin of error for the entire sample is +/-2 percentage points at the 95% confidence level.

Phase Two—Persons Who Have Had Cosmetic Surgery The general public interviews were supplemented with an additional 507 interviews among persons who have had cosmetic surgery. Since this population has such a low incidence among the general public (5%), an RDD telephone method would have been exceedingly cost- and time-prohibitive. Interviews were therefore conducted online via DMS, an AOL property, which provides access to the 23 million-plus subscribers of AOL—the largest single online sampling frame currently available. It offers the closest approximation of a “mass market” available online today. Compared to other online services, it should be noted that America Online’s membership most closely mirrors the general population. The exact same questionnaire was administered to both the general public and to persons who have had cosmetic surgery. All online interviews were conducted between September 11 and October 20, 2000. 1 Cooperation rate of qualified respondents was 26%.

Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery Summary Of Findings

Page 3

Summary Of Findings

Inner beauty is more important than physical beauty When asked whether it is physical or inner beauty that “really counts” in the real world, over half (60%) agree that inner beauty trumps physical appearance. One in three (35%) say it is physical beauty that counts most.

Men and women age gracefully in equal measure One attitude apparently not endorsed by the majority of Americans is that, as they age, men grow more distinguished looking whereas women just grow older looking. In fact, only three in ten (28% of men, 32% of women) believe this is the case. A mere 6% believes the opposite. Rather, most—65% of men, 60% of women—believe men and women age gracefully, or just grow old-looking, in equal measure.

Maintaining youth and good looks is not as important as family and self-esteem Compared to other key factors, relatively few women rate either “maintaining an attractive physical appearance” or “staying young looking” as essential to them personally (24% and 15%, respectively). Top priorities instead include spending time with family (66%), a fulfilling relationship with spouse/significant other (62%) and feeling good about themselves (55%).


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Men are even less likely than women to count as “essential” such factors as “maintaining an attractive physical appearance” (15%) and “staying young-looking” (9%). Staying young-looking is, in fact, the least important of the twelve factors rated. Rather, of utmost importance to men, like women, are family-oriented factors.

Americans are satisfied with how they look Happily, almost all women are “completely” or “somewhat satisfied” with the way they look for their age (92%; 48% are “completely” satisfied). Most are also satisfied with their physical appearance (86%). Men, too, are “completely” or “somewhat” satisfied with their appearance—94% with “the way I look for my age” and 91% with “my physical appearance.”

Average American thinks he/she is above average in physical attractiveness Asked to rate their own physical appearance on a 0-10 point scale, men and women, on average, give themselves the same—and slightly above average—score (6.4). In fact, men and women are remarkably similar in their assessments of themselves, giving themselves in virtually equal measure specific point ratings, and offering some evidence that women, who may go to much further measures than men on maintaining their appearance, are not harder on themselves when it comes to rating their attractiveness.

Middle-age is the peak of attractiveness Asked at what age they reached—or will reach—their peak of physical attractiveness, men and women alike say it is (or will be) not during their youth, but in their early middle age (38 years old, on average). Interestingly, as they get older, they think their peak of attractiveness is older, too.


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Women take a number of steps to stay young-looking and attractive Most women say they have kept to a healthful diet (88%) at some point in their lives and almost as many have maintained a regular exercise regimen (80%). These measures are, of course, the most important in maintaining physical attractiveness, as well as overall health. About two-thirds (63%) have taken additional steps by going on a diet (though only about half—48%—of those 65+ claim to have ever done so), and over half of those 35+ have used hair coloring to hide grey (peaking among 45-54 year-olds—71%). Looking to the future, women intend to keep on eating well (91%) and exercising (85%). Most (63%) also expect to use grey-hiding hair coloring, apply cosmetics to hide age marks (61%), go on a diet (60%), and get a facial (58%).

Men also take such steps, but to a lesser degree Most men at some point in their lives say they have maintained a regular exercise routine (84%; this decreases slightly among older age groups) and a healthful diet (82%; this increases slightly among older age groups). Both behaviors contribute considerably to staying healthy and keeping up an attractive physical appearance. Unlike women, however, fewer than half of men (43%) have ever gone on a diet (though the majority—57%—of 45-64 year-olds say they have). Like women, in the future men intend to keep on eating well (90%) and exercising (87%), right up through the oldest age group studied. At least half also expect to go on a diet, particularly those between the ages of 45 and 64 (59%).


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Americans have generally tolerant—but sometimes conflicting—views on cosmetic surgery At first blush, Americans seem generally tolerant of cosmetic surgery, with six in ten (59%) agreeing that “in principle, if someone is not happy with how they look, there’s nothing wrong with their getting elective cosmetic surgery.” But they also seem to believe it is more appropriate for some people than for others, irrespective of whether or not they are happy with the way they look—Indeed, eight in ten (82%) believe it is “more socially acceptable for a woman to get cosmetic surgery than for a man to get it,” a view held by large majorities across age and gender. Americans also tend to believe there are “typical kinds of people” who get cosmetic surgery (65%), and their views of them are not always flattering. In fact, they believe such people are rich or upper class (34%), insecure or otherwise unhappy with themselves (32%), and/or vain or materialistic (27%).

Americans agree, however, that cosmetic surgery usually has its desired effect Though only about 4% of Americans have ever had a cosmetic surgery procedure, fully half (50%) know someone who’s had it. For them, cosmetic surgery does seem to be having its desired effect. Asked about the person they know who most recently had cosmetic surgery, over half (61%) agree the person looks better than they used to. (Few—6%—think they look worse.) Moreover, most (80%) say their opinion of the person has not been affected. Few say they either think better (7%) or worse (10%) of them.


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Women would use cosmetic surgery to reduce weight, men to replace their hair If women had the opportunity to have a cosmetic surgery procedure done—safely, for free, and so that no-one could tell—how many would take advantage, and what would they do? Over half (60%) would have something done, particularly procedures to reduce weight—tummy tucks (28%) and liposuction (20%). Older women are especially likely to mention surgeries which would help them look younger. What would men fix? Despite the fact that they rate themselves as no more (or less) attractive than women, men are far less likely to say they would have anything done—perhaps reflecting the stigma against men having cosmetic surgery. In fact, over half (57%) would have nothing done. But if they would have cosmetic surgery, they would most likely get a hair transplant (10%) or, like women, do something about their weight through a tummy tuck (8%) and liposuction (8%).

Primary reasons most Americans will not have cosmetic surgery Most (86%) women say they probably or definitely will not undergo cosmetic surgery at any time in the future. Asked why they won’t, they offer a range of reasons. Chief among them are they are satisfied with their appearance and therefore feel there is no need for it (39%), they are against it in principle (22%), the risks involved and fear that something could go wrong (20%), and cost (18%). Most (94%) men as well say they probably or definitely will not undergo cosmetic surgery in the future. They offer the same reasons for this as women, but are in much greater agreement on the primary reason—they are satisfied with their appearance (54%).


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Focus on Americans who intend to have a procedure done some time in the future Among those who expect to have cosmetic surgery some time in the future, men and women have different priorities. Women have a wider range of things they want to do, including getting a face-lift (20%), eyelid surgery (19%), and a tummy tuck (18%). In contrast, men show a clear preference for one procedure—a hair transplant/ implant (20%). About one in eight (13%) also expect to get a face lift. Asked why they will undergo surgery, men and women agree they will do so simply to “look better” (22% and 24%, respectively). Beyond that, women are a bit more talkative than men, offering reasons having to do with aging such as trying to stay young-looking (11% and 6%, respectively) and to feel better about themselves (15% versus 6%).

Focus on Americans who have had cosmetic surgery In a number of important ways, Americans who have had cosmetic surgery differ from the general public when it comes to their views of themselves, beauty, and aging. Indeed, unlike most Americans, they believe that physical beauty—not inner beauty—is what counts in the real world (53%). They are also more inclined to believe that with age men grow distinguished looking while women just grow old looking (55%) and that there are professional advantages to getting cosmetic surgery for both women (84%) and men (59%). Reflecting their belief that looks count, persons who have had cosmetic surgery are more than twice as likely as the general public to say “maintaining an attractive physical appearance” (46% versus 20%, respectively) and “staying young looking” (30% versus 12%) are “essential” to them personally. They are also more likely to take concrete steps—such as dieting, exercising, and using cosmetics—to stay looking their best. But despite their efforts, they rate themselves as no more attractive than the general public rates itself (e.g., 69% give themselves a 5-7 rating versus 68% of people who have not had cosmetic surgery). Perhaps as a result of going to such efforts yet thinking they look only


Page 9

average, they are less satisfied with their appearance than Americans generally. Nevertheless, people who have had cosmetic surgery maintain that the surgery has had positive effects. Indeed, at least two in three concur that the surgery has allowed them to feel better about themselves (76%), be happy with the way they look (75%), and not feel self-conscious about their appearance (67%). The most common procedures include nose reshaping (19%), eyelid surgery (17%), breast augmentation (12%), laser skin resurfacing/ dermabrasion (11%), and liposuction (11%).

Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery A Few Myths On Beauty And Aging Debunked

Page 10

I. A Few Myths On Beauty And Aging Debunked

Americans generally believe that inner beauty is more important than physical beauty, that women age as gracefully as men, and that age—at least among celebrities—does not necessarily diminish attractiveness.

Physical vs. Inner Beauty

Despite all the attention paid to fashion and appearance, over half of Americans (60%), when asked whether it is physical or inner beauty that “really counts” in the real world, agree that inner beauty trumps physical appearance. One in three (35%) say it is physical beauty that counts most. • Older Americans are particularly likely to believe inner beauty

counts more. For example, whereas just over half (57%) of 18-34 year-olds say inner beauty “really counts,” two-thirds (66%) of those 65 years and older make the same claim.

• Perhaps as people grow older and wiser—and have more grey

hair and a few extra pounds—they increasingly appreciate the spiritual and personal side of themselves and those around them. This is supported by the fact that 79% of 18-34 year-olds say a fulfilling spiritual or religious life is “essential” or “important” to them, while 85-89% of those 35-64 years old make the same claim.


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Physical or Inner Beauty—What Counts In the Real World?

Base: Total respondents. Q.6 - “I’m going to read two statements. When I have finished reading both, please tell me which one you agree with more. First…[ROTATE:] Inner beauty is nice, but in the real world, physical beauty is what really counts; [OR] Physical beauty is nice, but in the real world, inner beauty is what really counts.”

Age

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

Inner beauty Physical beauty Other/DK

(N=652) (N=416) (N=403) (N=230) (N=307)

57

40

3

59

36

5

62

34

4

62

32

6

66

29

5


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Distinguished Gentlemen—and Ladies

One attitude apparently not endorsed by the majority of Americans is that, as they age, men grow more distinguished looking whereas women just grow older looking. In fact, only three in ten (28% of men, 32% of women) believe this is the case. A mere 6% believe the opposite. Rather, most—65% of men, 60% of women—believe men and women age gracefully, or just grow old-looking, in equal measure.

Men and Women Are Equally Likely to Grow Old Gracefully

Base: Total respondents (X version).

Q.7 - “I’m going to read three statements. When I have finished reading all three, please tell me which one you agree with most. First…

Women (N=505) Men (N=507)

60% 65% Men and women are

equally likely to growdistinguished looking

32 28

Men usually getdistinguished looking;

women just get olderlooking

6 6

Women usually getdistinguished looking;

men just get olderlooking


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The Stars Shine—Both Young and Old

Not only do Americans say men and women age equally well, they reflect this belief in their ratings of the physical attractiveness of various celebrities. Asked to rate the looks of various celebrities—as they appear now—on a 0-10 point scale (where 10 is “extremely attractive”), the ten celebrities the public rates as most attractive are split between young and old, men and women. • Of the five top-rated women, two—Goldie Hawn (49% give her an

8-10 rating) and Tina Turner (43%)—are, despite their 50+ status, rated in the same class as current sex symbols Jennifer Lopez (53%), Britney Spears (48%), and Pamela Anderson (Lee) (39%).

• The same is true when it comes to rating men. Of the five top-rated

men, three are middle-aged or mature—Sean Connery (57%), Richard Gere (48%), and Robert Redford (42%).

It is interesting to note that Americans age 65-plus are likely to find certain celebrities more attractive, or less attractive, than younger Americans—but not in any predictable way. For example:

• Tiger Woods is particularly attractive to older Americans—indeed,

69% of those 65-plus give him a 8-10 rating; only 37% of those 18-34 do the same.

• But when rating other young celebrities, such as Britney Spears

(52% versus 25%) and Will Smith (50% versus 22%), it is younger Americans who rate them more highly.


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Rating Celebrities: Physical Attractiveness On a 0-10 Point Scale

Base: Have heard of and have seen recently. (% Rating 8, 9, or 10)

Gender Age

Total

Total N Men Women

18- 34

35- 44

45- 54

55- 64 65+

% % % % % % % % Sean Connery 57 954 50 63 54 52 70 58 52 Tiger Woods 54 978 46 60 37 53 59 69 69 Jennifer Lopez 53 914 54 51 69 58 46 40 25 Goldie Hawn 49 943 45 53 41 54 54 54 47 Britney Spears 48 931 51 44 52 55 56 37 25 Richard Gere 48 939 36 58 44 52 51 52 42 Tina Turner 43 952 32 54 38 52 46 41 35 Will Smith 42 930 35 49 50 51 42 27 22 Robert Redford 42 927 29 55 29 48 46 45 53 Pamela Anderson Lee 39 902 48 31 47 41 41 32 17 Cybill Shepherd 34 903 33 36 23 45 36 33 43 Jimmy Smits 32 804 21 41 25 33 41 36 29 Cher 31 967 24 39 26 42 35 33 21 Bill Cosby 30 967 22 36 18 30 31 38 43 Connie Chung 30 934 20 39 18 31 38 37 39 Oprah Winfrey 27 975 15 39 20 22 25 33 45 Samuel L. Jackson 27 831 22 32 30 30 30 26 12 Tom Brokaw 27 924 20 32 10 20 31 38 52 Mary Tyler Moore 27 907 20 32 16 28 24 33 43 Barbra Streisand 26 958 19 32 13 24 35 39 32 Tony Bennett 23 870 19 26 13 17 22 31 43 Diane Keaton 22 852 19 24 13 27 28 23 24 Tommy Lee Jones 22 911 16 28 16 22 29 28 24

Q.4 - “You may have heard some people rate particularly good-looking women and men as a “Perfect 10.” Using a scale from 0 to 10, where 10 is extremely attractive, 0 is extremely unattractive, and 5 is average, please rate the following celebrities and famous people on how you think they look today. If you’ve never heard of someone, or if you haven’t seen them lately, just let me know. First…” [READ EACH ITEM.]

Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery How Americans Really Feel About Physical Appearance

Page 15

II. How Americans Really Feel About Physical Appearance

Essential Factors In the Lives of Women Compared to other key factors, relatively few women rate either “maintaining an attractive physical appearance” or “staying young looking” as essential to them personally (24% and 15%, respectively). Moreover, the number who find appearance “essential” remains fairly steady across age groups. Rather, perhaps reflecting their belief that “inner beauty” counts most, top priorities include:

• Spending time with family (66% say it is “essential”) • A fulfilling relationship with spouse/significant other (62%) • Feeling good about myself (55%) • Staying healthy and physically fit (53%) • A fulfilling spiritual or religious life (51%)

It should, however, be noted that women place more importance on physical appearance than on professional advancement. And more than half say that physical appearance is essential or at least important to them.


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Essential Factors In The Lives of American Women

Base: Total women to whom item applies. (% say item is “essential” to them) Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

(1210) (367) (243) (250) (147) (203)

% % % % % %

Spending time with family 66 67 73 65 62 58

A fulfilling relationship with my spouse/significant other1 62 69 68 60 57 46

Feeling good about myself 55 63 61 51 53 42

Staying healthy and physically fit 53 49 57 54 54 53

A fulfilling spiritual or religious life2 51 43 50 57 56 54

Having time to pursue personal interests 34 36 33 35 33 30

A fulfilling job or career3 33 46 34 29 29 16

Spending time with friends 28 28 27 25 33 31

Maintaining an attractive physical appearance 24 27 22 20 27 23

Professional advancement4 21 30 23 15 16 10

Staying young looking 15 15 13 13 19 14

Having a lot of money 12 16 13 9 11 9 Q.1 - “To begin, I am going to read some things that may not be important to you personally. For each one, please tell me whether it is essential, not very important, or not at all important to you. If something doesn’t apply, just let me know. First…” 1N= 1103; 2N=1203; 3N=1112; 4N=1108.


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Essential/important Factors In The Lives of American Women

Base: Total women to whom item applies. (% say item is “essential” or “important” to them)

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

(1210) (367) (243) (250) (147) (203)

% % % % % %







Having time to pursue personal interests 90 90 92 92 92 88 Spending time with friends 88 87 83 89 93 92



Staying young looking 57 57 57 53 58 59

Having a lot of money 52 58 52 53 52 41 Q.1 - “To begin, I am going to read some things that may not be important to you personally. For each one, please tell me whether it is essential, not very important, or not at all important to you. If something doesn’t apply, just let me know. First…” 1N= 1103; 2N=1203; 3N=1112; 4N=1108.


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Women’s Satisfaction With Life’s Essentials To what extent are women happy with their physical appearance and other, more essential things in their lives? No matter what their age, almost all are “completely” or “somewhat satisfied” with the way they look for their age (92%; 48% are completely satisfied and those 18-34 years old are more likely to be “completely satisfied than those 45-plus). Most are also satisfied with their physical appearance (86%), though those least satisfied are in their middle years (e.g., 79% of 45-54 years versus 88% of those 18-34 and 93% of those 65+). In fact, of the twelve aspects of their lives we asked about, satisfaction with “the way I look for my age” is second only to “feeling good about myself.” Importantly, women are especially satisfied with those aspects of life that are most important to them:

• Feeling good about myself (94%) • My spiritual or religious life (91%) • The amount of time I get to spend with my family (83%) • My relationship with my spouse/significant other (81%—though this

declines among the older age groups—e.g., 85% of those 18-34, 63% of those 65+)

They are least satisfied with the amount of money they have (25% are “somewhat” or “completely dissatisfied”) and the amount of time they get to spend on personal interests (23%).


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Satisfaction Among Women With Various Aspects of Their Lives Base: Total women to whom item applies. (% say they are “completely” or “somewhat satisfied” with item)

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ (1210) (367) (243) (250) (147) (203)

% % % % % %


The way I look for my age 92 95 90 90 93 92

My spiritual or religious life1 91 86 90 93 91 96

My physical appearance 86 88 86 79 82 93

The amount of time I get to spend with my family 83 82 83 77 84 88

My relationship with my spouse or significant other2 81 85 87 85 83 63

My health and fitness 81 85 81 77 82 82

The amount of time I get to spend with my friends 80 79 74 75 84 91 The amount of time I get to spend on my personal interests 76 72 74 69 80 89

The amount of money I have 73 67 69 71 83 79

My career track3 72 78 77 74 74 44

How fulfilling my job is4 72 77 80 73 71 49 Q.2 - “For each of the following, please tell me whether you are completely satisfied with it, somewhat satisfied, somewhat dissatisfied, or completely dissatisfied with it. Again, if something doesn’t apply to you, just let me know. First…” 1N= 1172; 2N=1087; 3N=1025; 4N=1023.


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Essential Factors In the Lives of Men Men are even less likely than women to count as “essential” such factors as “maintaining an attractive physical appearance” (15%) and “staying young-looking” (9%). Staying young-looking is, in fact, the least important of the twelve factors rated. Rather, of utmost importance to men, like women, are family-oriented factors: • A fulfilling relationship with my spouse/significant other (57%) • Spending time with family (55%)


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Essential Factors In The Lives of American Men Base: Total men to whom item applies. (% say item is “essential” to them)

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

(798) (285) (173) (153) (83) (104)

% % % % % %










Maintaining an attractive appearance 15 20 11 13 11 18

Having a lot of money 13 18 11 8 14 9

Staying young looking 9 11 6 8 9 12 Q.1 – “To begin, I am going to read some things that may or may not be important to you personally. Foe each one, please tell me whether it is essential to you, important but not essential, not very important, or not at important to you. If something doesn’t apply, just let me know. First…” 1N=760; 2N=790; 3N=745; 4N=748.


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Essential/Important Factors In The Lives of American Men Base: Total men to whom item applies. (% say item is “essential” or “important” to them)

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

(798) (285) (173) (153) (83) (104)

% % % % % %











Having a lot of money 48 54 48 44 39 47

Staying young looking 44 46 39 38 44 50 Q.1 - “To begin, I am going to read some things that may or may not be important to you personally. For each one, please tell me whether it is essential to you, important but not essential, not very important, or not at important to you. If something doesn’t apply, just let me know. First…” 1N=760; 2N=790; 3N=745; 4N=748.


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Satisfaction Among Men With Life’s Essentials As with women, men, across ages, are generally satisfied not only with their appearance (94% with “the way I look for my age” and 91% with “my physical appearance”) but with the things that matter to them most: • My relationship with my spouse/significant other (84%) • The amount of time I get to spend with my family (79%)


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Satisfaction Among Men With Various Aspects of Their Lives

Base: Total men to whom item applies. (% say they are “completely” or “somewhat satisfied” with item)

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

(798) (285) (173) (153) (83) (104)

% % % % % %


The way I look for my age 94 94 94 95 94 93

My physical appearance 91 93 90 86 93 94

My spiritual or religious life1 87 86 80 91 95 90

My health and fitness 86 87 89 80 84 89

My relationship with my spouse or significant other2 84 83 83 84 84 91

The amount of time I get to spend with my friends 81 82 71 83 87 90

The amount of time I get to spend on my personal interests 80 77 74 78 85 93

The amount of time I get to spend with my family 79 79 76 77 84 86

My career track3 76 80 82 77 76 49

How fulfilling my job is4 75 76 81 81 78 44

The amount of money I have 73 66 75 76 78 82 Q.2 - “For each of the following, please tell me whether you are completely satisfied with it, somewhat satisfied, somewhat dissatisfied, or completely dissatisfied with it. Again, if something doesn’t apply to you, just let me know. First…” 1N=738; 2N=716; 3N=748; 4N=716.

Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery Americans Rate Their Own Appearance

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III. Americans Rate Their Own Appearance

From 0 to a “Perfect 10” Asked to rate their own physical appearance on a 0-10 point scale, men and women, on average, give themselves the same—and slightly above average—score (6.4).

In fact, men and women are remarkably similar in their assessments of themselves, giving themselves in virtually equal measure specific point ratings, and offering some evidence that women, who may go to much further measures than men on maintaining their appearance, are not harder on themselves when it comes to rating their attractiveness.

Americans Rate Their Physical Appearance on a 0-10 Point Scale Base: Total respondents.

0%5%

10%15%20%25%30%35%40%45%50%

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Men (N = 798) Women (N = 1210)

Q.8 - “Using the same 0-to-10 point scale we used a few questions back to rate celebrities, where a ‘perfect 10’ is extremely attractive, 0 is extremely unattractive, and 5 is average, how would you rate your own overall appearance?”

Rating of Appearance


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Women: From “0” to a “Perfect 10” Taking a closer look, one factor that clearly influences how women rate themselves is how old they are.

• After they reach age 35, women become less likely to give themselves

a top (8-10) rating—whereas 33% of 18-34 year-olds give themselves an 8, 9, or 10, by age 35 only 20% rate themselves as highly, staying in this range into old age.

• Such women, however, don’t feel they become unattractive. Rather, at

age 35 they become more likely to give themselves an average (5-7) rating.

Women Rate Their Physical Appearance On a 0-10 Point Scale

Base: Total women.

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

0-4 5-7 8-10

Q.8 - “Using the same 0-to-10 point scale we used a few questions back to rate celebrities, where a ‘perfect 1’ is extremely attractive, 0 is extremely unattractive, and 5 is average, how would you rate your own overall appearance?”

(N=367) (N=243) (N=250) (N=147) (N=203)

60

75 68 70 67

33

5

20

4

24 18

6 10

22

8

Age


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Women: A Head-to-Toe Assessment What causes this decline in self ratings? When we look, by age, at how satisfied women are with various parts of their bodies, we see that, for the most part, over half of women remain satisfied with their facial features (92%), neck (87%), hair (86%), skin (85%), and upper body (82%) well into old age. However, women 55-plus are less satisfied than those 18-34 with their neck and hair. • The one exception is satisfaction with the lower body, which declines

from 71% at ages 18-34 to 62% among 35-44 year-olds and to under 60% among those 45-plus. Perhaps it is the perception of the expanding waistband, thickening thighs and backsides in middle-age which cause women to increasingly rate themselves as average in physical appearance.

Women’s Satisfaction With Parts of Body

Base: Total women. (% “very” or “somewhat” satisfied with body part)

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ (1210) (367) (243) (250) (147) (203)

% % % % % %

Facial features 92 96 92 91 89 87 Neck 87 94 90 86 79 79 Hair 86 91 84 90 82 82 Skin 85 89 85 85 83 79

Upper body; that is, above the waist 82 83 82 76 83 85

Lower body; that is, below the waist 63 71 62 56 59 59

Q.13 - “I’m going to read the names of some general parts of your body. For each one, please tell me whether you are very satisfied with the way it looks, somewhat satisfied, somewhat dissatisfied, or very dissatisfied. First…”


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Men: From “0” to a “Perfect 10” Men, like women, become less likely to give themselves a top (8-10) rating after they reach 35. Whereas 31% of 18-34 year-olds give themselves an 8, 9, or 10, by age 35 only two-thirds as many (21%) rate themselves so highly. • By age 65-plus, the proportion of men who rate themselves as an 8, 9,

or 10 is equal to the proportion of total men who rate themselves in the top category regardless of age (23%).

• Also like women, men don’t feel they become unattractive. Rather, at

age 35 they become more likely to give themselves an average (5-7) rating.

Men Rate Their Physical Attractiveness On a 0-10 Point Scale

Base: Total men.

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

0-4 5-7 8-10

Q.8 - “Using the same 0-to-10 point scale we used a few questions back to rate celebrities, where a ‘perfect 1’ is extremely attractive, 0 is extremely unattractive, and 5 is average, how would you rate your own overall appearance?” *Caution: Small base.

(N=285) (N=173) (N=153) (N=83)* (N=104)

63 74 74

81 69

31

4

21

6 14 14

9 3

23

6

Age


Page 29

Men: A Head-to-Toe Self-Assessment Also like women, the decline in ratings among men correlates to a (slight) decline in satisfaction with a specific part of the body—the hair. • It is satisfaction with this body part that declines after the age of 34

(down 9 points, from 90% to 81%). Most men remain consistently satisfied with other parts of their body regardless of age.

Men’s Satisfaction With Parts of Body Base: Total men. (% “very” or “somewhat” satisfied with body part)

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

(798) (285) (173) (153) (83) (104)

% % % % % %

Facial features 95 97 94 94 98 94

Neck 95 95 94 94 97 92

Skin 93 93 94 94 96 91

Lower body; that is, below the waist 91 95 92 86 90 83

Upper body; that is, above the waist 84 87 86 78 80 88

Hair 83 90 81 80 84 68

Q.13 - “I’m going to read the names of some general parts of your body. For each one, please tell me whether you are very satisfied with the way it looks, somewhat satisfied, somewhat dissatisfied, or very dissatisfied. First…”

Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery Physical Appearance And Getting Older

Page 30

IV. Physical Appearance And Getting Older

Peak of Physical Attractiveness Is a Moving Target Asked at what age they reached—or will reach—their peak of physical attractiveness, men and women alike say it is (or will be) not during their youth, but in their early middle age (38 years old, on average). Interestingly, as they get older, they think their peak of attractiveness is older, too. • For example, while 18-34 year-olds think their attractiveness peaked

or will peak at about 30, those 65-plus think they reached their peak at age 46, indicating that, as people age, they may have different standards of attractiveness for themselves.

It should be noted that older men and women are remarkably similar in assessing their peak age, corroborating the finding cited earlier that women do not believe their beauty fades more quickly than it does among men (i.e., that men and women grow distinguished-looking, or just old-looking, in equal measure as they age).

Age Reached—Or Will Reach—Peak of Physical Attractiveness

Base: Total respondents. Mean age.

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

Women (N=1210) 38.1 30.1 36.1 40.6 45.1 45.7

Men (N=798) 37.8 30.9 37.5 41.8 43.7 46.2

Q.9 - “At what age do you think you reached—or will reach—your peak, in terms of physical attractiveness?”


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When Do We Look Middle- and Old-Aged? Men and women think they start looking middle-aged once they hit their forties, on average. As with assessing their peak of attractiveness, older men and women tend to push back the age at which they feel they first started looking middle-aged compared to their somewhat younger counterparts. • For example, whereas people age 45-54 say they started looking

middle-aged in their early- to mid-forties, those 65+ say they became middle-aged in their mid-fifties.

• Women begin to feel they look middle-aged at a somewhat more

advanced age than do men—47 versus 43, respectively. • Women also feel they start looking older later—age 61, on average,

versus 52, on average, among men.


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At What Age Americans Think They Start Looking Middle-Aged and/or Old

Base: Say they look middle-aged or old. (Mean age)

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

Started looking middle-aged:

Women (N=517) 47.3 28.4 37.0 44.1 50.3 56.2

Men (N=505) 43.0 26.7 35.6 41.7 49.6 54.0

Started looking old:

Women (N=60)* 60.9 ** ** ** ** **

Men (N=74)* 52.3 ** ** ** ** ** Q.11 – “At about what age do you think you started looking middle-aged?” Q.12 – “At about what age do you think you started looking old?” *Caution: small base. **Very small bases; data not shown.


Page 33

Women Reflect on Their Maturing Bodies Asked whether or not certain words describe how they feel about their bodies as they mature, most women are positive about the aging process, agreeing, from age 18 through old age, that “accepting” (91%), “happy” (89%), and “pleased” (84%) describe their feelings “very” or “fairly” well. Meanwhile, few say, even as they get older, that they feel either “disappointed” (27%), “afraid” (20%) or “depressed” (19%). The physical also becomes less “physical” with age. Indeed, 77% of women 65-plus say they feel “philosophical” about their bodies as they mature, compared to 61% to 67% of those between 18 and 54 years old. Older women are more likely than younger women to say they feel “resigned” (e.g., 65% of those 65-plus versus 39% of 18-34 year olds). Older women are also less “fascinated” with their bodies than are younger women (61% versus 45%, respectively).


Page 34

Women’s Feelings About Their Bodies As They Mature Base: Total women. (% say word describes how they feel “very” or “fairly well”)

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

(1210) (367) (243) (250) (147) (203)

% % % % % %

Accepting 91 92 92 89 91 92

Happy 89 92 87 86 89 90

Pleased 84 88 83 81 80 85

Philosophical 68 61 65 67 75 77

Resigned 53 39 51 57 67 65

Fascinated 51 61 45 49 52 45

Disappointed 27 23 29 30 33 25

Afraid 20 24 19 21 20 13

Depressed 19 18 15 17 27 22

Q.14 - “Here are some words that may or may not describe the way you feel about your body as it matures. For each one, please tell me whether it describes the way you feel; very well, fairly well, not very well, or not at all. First…”


Page 35

Men Assess Their Maturing Bodies Men give responses similar to women when asked whether or not particular words describe how they feel about their maturing bodies. Most are positive about the process, agreeing, from age 18 through old age, that “happy” (94%), “accepting” (92%), and “pleased” (90%) describe them “very” or “fairly” well. Also like women, few say, even as they get older, that they feel either “disappointed” (20%) or “afraid” (16%) about their bodies. At the same time, they are increasingly likely to become “resigned” (39% of 18-34 year-olds versus 46% of 35-44 year-olds, 65% of those 55-64, and 59% of those 65-plus. ) They differ from women, however, in a number of respects. Men get slightly more “depressed” about their bodies as they age (e.g., 14% of 18-34 year-olds and 13% of those 35-44 versus 22% of 45-54 year-olds, 21% of those 55-64, and 25% of those 65-plus). In addition, men do not become less (or more) “fascinated” with or “philosophical” about their bodies, suggesting that they spend less time than women pondering the subject.


Page 36

Men’s Feelings About Their Bodies As They Mature Base: Total men. (% say word describes how they feel; “very” or “fairly well”)

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

(798) (285) (173) (153) (83) (104)

% % % % % %

Happy 94 95 94 90 94 96

Accepting 92 93 93 91 94 88

Pleased 90 91 89 90 90 91

Philosophical 74 75 71 77 74 75

Fascinated 61 64 58 59 57 63

Resigned 49 39 46 52 65 59

Disappointed 20 17 20 18 26 23

Depressed 17 14 13 22 21 25

Afraid 16 16 14 15 18 17

Q.14 - “Here are some words that may or may not describe the way you feel about your body as it matures. For each one, please tell me whether it describes the way you feel; very well, fairly well, not very well, or not at all. First…”

Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery Steps Taken To Stay Attractive And Young-Looking

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V. Steps Taken To Stay Attractive And Young-Looking

What Women Do to Stay Youthful and Attractive American women take many steps to stay attractive and young-looking. If most seem to be satisfied with their physical appearance, it may be the result of proactive efforts to maintain their youthfulness. Most women say they have kept to a healthful diet (88%) at some point in their lives. Almost as many have maintained a regular exercise regimen (80%). These measures are, of course, the most important in maintaining physical attractiveness, as well as overall health. About two-thirds (63%) have taken additional steps by going on a diet (though only about half—48%—of those 65+ claim to have ever done so), and over half of those 35+ have used hair coloring to hide grey (peaking among 45-54 year-olds—71%). In their efforts to stay attractive and young-looking, three in ten (30%) say they have used cosmetics to cover up age marks or other signs of aging. Not surprisingly, using cosmetics to combat the signs of aging is more common among older women (e.g., 14% of 18-24 year-olds versus 42% of those 55+). Relatively few (5%) have had elective cosmetic surgery. However, it should be noted that 5% represents one woman in every twenty. Smaller numbers have had a chemical peel or dermabrasian (4%), used Monoxidil or Rogain (4%), or had a temporary cosmetic procedure such as collagen or botox injections (2%).


Page 38

Tomorrow They Expect to Do More Generally speaking, the proportion of women who anticipate taking steps to remain young and attractive looking is significantly higher than the proportion who say they have already done so. Looking to the future, women intend to keep on eating well (91%) and exercising (85%). Younger women, however, are more likely to envision exercising in the future (e.g., 91% of 18-34 year-olds and 90% of those 35-44 versus 71% of those 65+). Most (63%) also expect to use grey-hiding hair coloring, apply cosmetics to hide age marks (61%), go on a diet (60%), and get a facial (58%). Until they reach 65, that is, when fewer than half expect to engage in these activities. Perhaps once women reach a certain point, many prefer to simply look their age. Women also reveal an openness to cosmetic surgery. A sizable proportion (15%) of women under 65 expect to have a cosmetic surgery procedure done which, if true, would represent a three-fold increase in the number being performed today (i.e., only 5% say they’ve ever such a procedure).


Page 39

Efforts Women Take To Look Better/Younger Base: Total women. (% have ever done item)

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

(1210) (367) (243) (250) (147) (203)

% % % % % %

Maintained a healthful, well-balanced diet 88 81 89 91 92 91

Maintained a regular exercise routine 80 84 83 83 83 67

Gone on a weight-loss or weight-reduced diet 63 62 68 70 67 48

Used hair coloring to hide grey 45 18 50 71 61 47

Had a facial 39 42 42 41 35 32

Used cosmetics to cover up age marks or other signs of aging 30 14 32 36 44 40

Used skin products such as Retin-A to reduce or prevent wrinkles 22 16 23 22 29 23

Had elective cosmetic surgery of any kind, including facial, body, or hair transplant/implant surgery 5 4 5 5 9 4

Had a chemical peel or dermabrasian 4 4 4 2 5 5

Used hair replenishing lotions such as Monoxidil or Rogaine 4 3 3 3 6 3

Had a temporary cosmetic procedure, such as collagen or botox injections 2 2 1 2 3 5

Q.15 - “For each of the following, please tell me whether you are currently doing it, have done it in the past but aren’t doing it now, or have never done it. First…”


Page 40

Predict Will Do In the Future—Women

Base: Total women. (% “probably” or “definitely will do” in the future)

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ (1210) (367) (243) (250) (147) (203)

% % % % % % Maintain a healthful, well-balanced diet 91 92 94 91 90 87

Maintain a regular exercise routine 85 91 90 86 83 71

Use hair coloring to hide grey 63 70 74 73 58 34

Use cosmetics to cover up age marks or other signs of aging 61 68 65 63 58 47

Go on a weight-loss or weight-reducing diet 60 67 68 68 52 39

Get a facial 58 74 63 62 50 31

Use skin products such as Retin-A to reduce or prevent wrinkles 40 48 49 37 36 24

Have elective cosmetic surgery of any kind, including facial, body, or hair transplant/implant surgery 13 16 15 14 16 4

Have a chemical peel or dermabrasian 11 14 13 11 13 2

Use hair replenishing lotions such as Monoxidil or Rogaine 11 11 10 12 10 9

Get a temporary cosmetic procedure, such as collagen or botox injections 6 6 6 6 11 3

Q.16 - “For each of the following, please tell me whether you think you definitely will do it in the future, probably will do it, probably will not do it, or definitely will not do it in the future. First…”


Page 41

What Men Do to Stay Youthful and Attractive Men to a lesser extent than women take a variety of steps to look good and stay youthful in appearance. Most men at some point in their lives say they have maintained a regular exercise routine and a healthful diet (84% and 82%, respectively; exercise decreases and healthful diet increases slightly among older men). Both of these behaviors contribute considerably to staying healthy and keeping up an attractive physical appearance. Unlike women, however, fewer than half of men (43%) have ever gone on a diet (though the majority—57%—of 45-64 year-olds say they have). Fewer still have taken most other cosmetic steps for the sake of their appearance. Although hair loss is among their greatest worries, only 5% of men have used a hair-replenishing lotion—8% among those 35-54. Very few have had elective cosmetic surgery (3%).

Men Expect to Do More In the Future Like women, in the future men of all ages intend to keep on eating well (90%) and exercising (87%). At least half also expect to go on a diet, particularly those between the ages of 45 and 64 (59%). Some also expect to do a number of things not traditionally associated with men—such as getting a facial (16%), using Retin-A (10%), and getting cosmetic surgery (6%). If men do in fact take such measures, it will represent a sizable increase in the number who currently say they have done such things.


Page 42

Efforts Men Take To Look Better/Younger Base: Total men. (% have ever done item)

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ (798) (285) (173) (153) (83)* (104)

% % % % % % Maintained a regular exercise routine 84 89 86 80 75 78

Maintained a healthful, well-balanced diet 82 78 82 82 88 87

Gone on a weight-loss or weight-reducing diet 43 31 46 54 62 41

Used hair coloring to hide grey 10 8 13 13 8 14

Had a facial 8 10 10 7 5 3

Used skin products such as Retin-A to reduce or prevent wrinkles 6 7 7 3 4 2

Used hair replenishing lotions such as Monoxidil or Rogaine 5 5 8 7 1 2

Used cosmetics to cover up age marks or other signs of aging 3 5 2 3 4 4

Had elective cosmetic surgery of any kind, including facial, body, or hair transplant/implant surgery 3 3 5 3 -- 2

Had a chemical peel or dermabrasian 2 4 3 2 2 2

Had a temporary cosmetic procedure, such as collagen or botox injections 2 3 2 1 -- 1

Q.15 - “For each of the following, please tell me whether you are currently doing it, have done it in the past but aren’t doing it now, or have never done it. First…” *Caution: small base.


Page 43

Predict Will Do In the Future—Men Base: Total men. (% “probably” or “definitely will do” in the future)

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ (798) (285) (173) (153) (83)* (104)

% % % % % %

Maintain a healthful, well-balanced diet 90 90 90 90 94 89

Maintain a regular exercise routine 87 90 87 84 83 86

Go on a weight-loss or weight-reducing diet 50 48 53 59 58 32

Get a facial 16 24 13 11 11 9

Use hair coloring to hide grey 16 20 20 12 9 11

Use hair replenishing lotions such as Monoxidil or Rogaine 11 16 15 10 5 2

Use skin products such as Retin-A to reduce or prevent wrinkles 10 14 10 8 7 5

Use cosmetics to cover up age marks or other signs of aging 7 11 7 3 5 4

Have elective cosmetic surgery of any kind, including facial, body, or hair transplant/implant surgery 6 8 7 5 2 1

Have a chemical peel or dermabrasian 4 8 4 4 1 --

Get a temporary cosmetic procedure, such as collagen or botox injections 3 5 5 1 1 --

Q.16 - “For each of the following, please tell me whether you think you definitely will do it in the future, probably will do it, probably will not do it, or definitely will not do it in the future. First…” *Caution: small base.

Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery Public Attitudes Toward Cosmetic Surgery

Page 44

VI. Public Attitudes Toward Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic Surgery: Good Thing, or Bad Thing? At first blush, Americans seem generally tolerant of cosmetic surgery, with six in ten (59%) agreeing that “in principle, if someone is not happy with how they look, there’s nothing wrong with their getting elective cosmetic surgery.” They are particularly likely to hold this view between the ages of 45 and 64 (66%). On the flipside, people under the age of 45 are most apt to say that people should be happy with who they are and forego cosmetic surgery. • Women are more likely than men to find nothing wrong with cosmetic

surgery (65% versus 52% of men), perhaps reflecting the fact that they are more likely to have had it or expect to.

• Nearly half (45%) of men agree that “in principle, people should be

happy with who they are and not get cosmetic surgery.”


Page 45

Should People Get Cosmetic Surgery? Base: Total respondents (Y version). (% agree)

Gender

Age

Total Men

Wo-men

18- 34

35- 44

45- 54

55- 64 65+

(1008) (380) (628) (331) (193) (215) (123) (146)

% % % % % % % %

In principle, if someone is not happy with how they look, there’s nothing wrong with their getting elective cosmetic surgery 59 52 65 55 56 64 69 58

In principle, people should be happy with who they are and not get elective cosmetic surgery 37 45 31 42 41 33 26 37

Don’t know 4 3 4 3 3 3 5 4 Q.19 - “I am going to read two statements. After I have finished reading both, please tell me which one you agree with more. First…”


Page 46

Support for Friends and Family Not only do people generally believe there’s nothing wrong with getting cosmetic surgery, majorities also say they would lend their support to people close to them if they ever wanted to have a procedure done. It should be noted, however, that they tend to be more supportive of friends than family:

• Best friend (66% of Americans would support their decision) • Spouse/significant other (56%) • Mother (55%) • Adult daughter (55%) • Adult son (54%) • Father (51%)

Though women tend to be somewhat more supportive in most cases, men are generally supportive as well.


Page 47

Support of Cosmetic Surgery For Family and Friends Base: Item applies. (% would “strongly” or “somewhat” support)

Gender Age

Total

Total N Men Women

18- 34

35- 44

45- 54

55- 64 65+

% % % % % % % %

Best friend 66 1924 63 69 61 67 72 68 67

Spouse/significant other 56 1771 57 56 50 60 62 60 57

Mother 55 1634 52 57 54 58 58 53 46

Adult daughter 55 1742 51 58 48 52 62 64 61

Adult son 54 1728 50 57 49 50 59 61 58

Father 51 1495 47 55 51 52 55 49 45 Q.26 - “Imagine for a moment that, either now or some time in the future, someone close to you wanted to get elective cosmetic surgery. For each of the following, do you think you would, on balance, strongly support their getting the surgery, generally support it, generally oppose it, or strongly oppose it? If an item doesn’t apply to you, just let me know.”


Cosmetic Surgery: OK For a Woman, But Not For a Man Though over half of Americans agree there’s nothing wrong with getting cosmetic surgery, they also seem to believe it is more appropriate for some people than for others, irrespective of whether or not they are happy with the way they look. • For example, eight in ten (82%) believe it is “more socially acceptable

for a woman to get cosmetic surgery than for a man to get it,” a view held by large majorities across age and gender.

Is It More Acceptable For a Woman Than A Man To Have Cosmetic Surgery? Base: Total respondents (Y version; N=1008).

Q.20 - “Please tell me whether yodisagree with each of the followinwoman to get cosmetic surgery tha

Not more socially acceptable for a

woman to get cosmetic surgery

(15%)
Don’t know(2%)
Page 48

u strongly agree, generally agree, generally disagree, or strongly g statements… In general, it is more socially acceptable for a n for a man to get it.”

More socially acceptable for a

woman to get cosmetic surgery

(82%)


Page 49

Cosmetic Surgery and Stereotypes Americans—men and women from youth to old age—also tend to believe there are “typical kinds of people” who get cosmetic surgery (65%), and, as we shall see, their views of them are not always flattering.

Do “Typical Kinds” of People Get Cosmetic Surgery?

Base: Total respondents (N=2008).

Q.17 - “First, without meaning to stereotype, would you say there are typical kinds of people who get cosmetic surgery, or would you say there are not typical kinds of people who get it?”

Yes (65%)

No (29%)

Don’t know (6%)


Page 50

Who Gets Cosmetic Surgery? Asked to describe the “typical kinds of people” who get cosmetic surgery, Americans who believe there are such people say they tend to be: • Rich or upper class (34%) • Insecure or otherwise unhappy with themselves (32%) • Vain or materialistic (27%) Others mention women (21%), middle-aged people (15%) and celebrities or other people who need it for their work (13%). These impressions generally hold across ages and gender, with two exceptions. As they get older, and perhaps more experienced with the subject, Americans are less likely to think people who get cosmetic surgery are either: • Rich (e.g., 38% of 18-34 year olds versus 21% of those 65+) or • Women (26% of 18-34 year olds versus 12% of those 65+).


Page 51

Americans Describe “Typical Kinds” of People Who Get Cosmetic Surgery

Base: Believe there are “typical kinds of people” who get cosmetic surgery.

Gender

Age

Total Men

Wo-men

18- 34

35- 44

45- 54

55- 64 65+

(1300) (627) (673) (430) (296) (228) (155) (191)

% % % % % % % %

Rich/upper class 34 34 34 38 38 37 24 21

Insecure/unhappy with themselves 32 30 34 30 31 34 37 30

Vain/materialistic 27 25 29 21 29 31 30 29

Women 21 21 21 26 21 20 19 12

Middle-aged people 15 16 14 17 18 13 10 11

Profession-related/celebrities 13 12 14 12 12 16 10 16

Q.18 - “And how would you describe the typical kinds of people who get cosmetic surgery, in terms of their age, gender, socio-economic status, personality, and so forth?… Is there any other way you would describe them?”


Page 52

Cosmetic Surgery, Vanity, and Insecurity Americans further reveal that though they think there’s nothing wrong with getting cosmetic surgery, they also believe that:

Women (78%) and men (79%) who get cosmetic surgery to look younger are more insecure about themselves than average. Women (75%) and men (76%) who get cosmetic surgery to look younger are more vain than average. Interestingly, this perception is somewhat more prevalent among those in older age groups.


Page 53

Cosmetic Surgery, Vanity, and Insecurity

Base: Total respondents (X version). (% “strongly” or “somewhat” agree)

Gender

Age

Total Men

Wo-men

18- 34

35- 44

45- 54

55- 64 65+

(1000) (418) (582) (321) (223) (188) (107) (161)

% % % % % % % %

Compared to the average woman:

Most women who get cosmetic surgery to look younger are more insecure about themselves 78 80 77 80 78 77 75 80

Most women who get cosmetic surgery to look younger are more vain 75 75 75 71 72 76 83 80

Compared to the average man:

Most men who get cosmetic surgery to look younger are more insecure about themselves 79 82 75 79 80 75 75 82

Most men who get cosmetic surgery to look younger are more insecure about themselves 76 79 73 69 74 81 84 80

Q.20 - “Please tell me whether you strongly agree, generally agree, generally disagree, or strongly disagree with each of the following statements. First…”


Page 54

Professional Advantages Come With Cosmetic Surgery Even if people who get cosmetic surgery are perceived as insecure and vain, they enjoy certain professional advantages as a result of the surgery, according to Americans. In fact: • The majority (66%) agree that “all things being equal, women who get

cosmetic surgery to look younger have professional advantages over women who just age naturally.”

• Close to half (43%) agree that men who get cosmetic surgery enjoy the same advantages. Interestingly, this perception grows as people age—e.g., 39% of 18-34 year-olds agree vs. 53% of those 65+.


Page 55

Professional Advantages of Cosmetic Surgery

Base: Total respondents (Y version). (% “strongly” or “somewhat” agree)

Gender

Age

Total Men

Wo-men

18- 34

35- 44

45- 54

55- 64 65+

(1008) (380) (628) (331) (193) (215) (123) (146)

% % % % % % % %

All things being equal, women who get cosmetic surgery to look younger have professional advantages over women their age who just age naturally 66 70 63 66 64 69 67 65

All things being equal, men who get cosmetic surgery to look younger have professional advantages over men their age who just age naturally 43 40 46 39 37 45 51 53


Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery Knowing People Who Have Had Cosmetic Surgery

Page 56

VII. Knowing People Who Have Had Cosmetic Surgery

Though only about 4% of Americans have ever had a cosmetic surgery procedure, fully half (50%) know someone who’s had it. • Perhaps as evidence that more people get it today than ever before,

people 65-plus are least likely (38%) to know someone who has ever had cosmetic surgery.

• Women are slightly more likely than men to say they know someone who has had cosmetic surgery.

Know Someone Who Has Ever Had Cosmetic Surgery

Base: Total respondents.

50 4753 51 51 54 56

38

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Total Men Women 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

Q.21 - “Do you know anyone who has ever had cosmetic surgery? He or she could be a family member, friend, or acquaintance.”

(N=2008) (N=798) (N=1210) (N=652) (N=416) (N=403) (N=230) (N=307)

Gender Age


Despite Stereotypes, Most Agree: Cosmetic Surgery Works Cosmetic surgery does seem to be having its desired effect. Asked about the person they know who most recently had cosmetic surgery, over half (61%) agree the person looks better than they used to. (Few—6%—think they look worse.) It should also be noted that a sizable number—one in four (24%)—say the surgery produced no real difference.

Americans Agree That Cosmetic Surgery Makes People Look Better

Base: Know someone who has had plastic surgery (N=1014).

DK/Refused/ Other (8%) Person looks worse

(6%)

No real difference (24%)

Person looks better (61%)

Q.23 - “Compared to before he or she had the surgery, would you say the surgery made this person look much better, somewhat better, somewhat worse, much worse, or did it make no real difference? If you didn’t know them before the surgery, just let me know.”

Page 57


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Moreover, Americans who think the person looks better after cosmetic surgery don’t fixate on the fact that the person had it; rather, when they see the person, they are more likely to think “they look better” (75%) than “they look like they had cosmetic surgery” (16%). The opposite is true if the person looks worse; in such cases, when respondents see the person, they are most likely pay attention to the surgery and think “they look like they had cosmetic surgery” (57%).

Do People Look Better, Worse, or Only Like They’ve Had Cosmetic Surgery

Base: Know someone who has had plastic surgery. Base sizes vary according to item. If think person looks better…

0 20 40 60 80

If think person looks worse…

0 20 40 60 80

Q.24 - “Now when you see this person, are you more likely to think ‘they look [INSERT RESPONSE FROM Q.23]’ or to think ‘they look like they had cosmetic surgery?’”

Looks better (75%) Looks like they had plastic surgery (16%)

Looks worse (23%) Looks like they had plastic surgery (57%)


Page 59

Cosmetic Surgery Doesn’t Change Perceptions of the “Real Person” In most cases, people who get cosmetic surgery needn’t worry that doing so will cause people to think worse of them. Asked about the person they know who most recently had cosmetic surgery, most (80%) say their opinion of the person has not been affected. Few say they either think better (7%) or worse (10%) of them.

Whether Think Better or Worse of Person Who Had Cosmetic Surgery

Base: Know someone who has had plastic surgery (N=1,014).

Opinion not affected(80%)

Think better of them(7%)

DK/Refused(3%)

Think worse of them

(10%)

Q.25 - “How has the cosmetic surgery affected your opinion of this person, if at all? Do you think much better of them as a person, somewhat better of them, somewhat worse of them, much worse of them, or has your opinion of them not been affected by their having had the surgery?”

Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery Cosmetic Surgery For Oneself

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VIII. Cosmetic Surgery For Oneself

The Cosmetic Surgery Offer of a Lifetime: Would Women Take It? Only 5% of American women have actually had cosmetic surgery. Yet, if given the opportunity to have a cosmetic surgery procedure done safely, for free, and so that no one could tell, a majority would jump at the chance. Over half (60%) say they would have something done, although the likelihood of doing so declines as they get older (e.g., 67% of 18-34 year-olds versus 44% of those 65+). About one in three (35%) say they would have no procedure done. The procedures that women would most like to have largely reflect their dissatisfaction with the lower body, waist and below, and their focus on weight loss. Procedures to reduce weight—tummy tucks (28%) and liposuction (20%)—are the most popular with most age groups. Older women more often than younger women mention surgeries that would help them look younger. After the tummy tuck and liposuction, the face lift is particularly popular among women between 45 and 54 (22%). Moreover, it is the most desired procedure among women 55 to 64 (29%). Meanwhile, after the tummy tuck and liposuction, breast enlargement figures most prominently among younger women under 34.


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Cosmetic Surgery Procedures Women Would Get— If Done Safely, For Free, and No One Could Tell

Base: Total women.

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ (1210) (367) (243) (250) (147) (203)

% % % % % %

Any procedure (net) 60 67 64 64 55 44

Tummy tuck 28 30 37 30 23 17

Liposuction 20 28 26 24 9 7

Face lift 15 9 12 22 29 13

Eyelid surgery 13 5 12 21 19 15

Laser/skin resurfacing/ dermabrasian 12 12 12 18 12 6 Breast augmentation 10 19 10 7 3 2

Nose reshaping 8 8 8 7 7 9

Breast reduction 8 11 8 10 8 4

Collagen injection 5 4 4 4 7 4

Hair transplant/implant 4 3 5 7 4 4

No procedure 35 29 32 32 39 48

Don’t know/refused 5 4 4 4 6 8

Q.27 - “Regardless of whether or not you’ve ever done it, imagine for a moment that you could have any cosmetic surgery procedure done safely and for free—and that no one would know unless you told them. Please let me know which of the following procedures, if any, you would have done.”


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The Cosmetic Surgery Offer of a Lifetime: Would Men Take It? Despite the fact that they rate themselves as no more (or less) attractive than women, men are far less likely to say they would have a cosmetic surgery procedure if it were done safely, for free, and so that no one could tell. This may reflect the stigma against men having cosmetic surgery discussed earlier. • In fact, over half (57%) would have nothing done. About one in three

(35%) say they would have any type of procedure, especially men between 35-44.

If they did have cosmetic surgery, they would most likely opt for a hair transplant (10%) or, like women, address their weight through a tummy tuck (8%) and liposuction (8%). • These priorities change slightly among older men, but the key finding

is that few men, no matter what their age, express interest in a particular cosmetic surgery procedure.


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Cosmetic Surgery Procedures Would Get— If Done Safely, For Free, and No One Could Tell

Base: Total men.

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ (798) (285) (173) (153) (83)* (104)

% % % % % %

Any procedure (net) 35 34 42 37 29 26

Hair transplant/implant 10 8 14 9 9 8

Liposuction 8 9 9 9 6 3

Tummy tuck 8 7 11 14 6 2

Laser/skin resurfacing/ dermabrasian 7 7 8 6 8 4

Nose reshaping 6 7 5 7 8 3 Face lift 5 5 5 5 4 4

Eyelid surgery 4 1 2 7 8 8

Collagen injection 1 1 1 1 2 2

Breast reduction 1 1 -- 3 1 2

No procedure 57 57 51 56 62 63

Don’t know/refused 8 9 7 7 9 11

Q.27 - “Regardless of whether or not you’ve ever done it, imagine for a moment that you could have any cosmetic surgery procedure done safely and for free—and that no one would know unless you told them. Please let me know which of the following procedures, if any, you would have done.” *Caution: small base.


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Primary Reasons Women Will Not Undergo Cosmetic Surgery Most (86%) women say they probably or definitely will not undergo cosmetic surgery at any time in the future. Asked why they would forgo cosmetic surgery, they offer a range of reasons. Chief among them are: • They are satisfied with their appearance and feel there is no need for it

(39%). • They oppose it in principle (22%), particularly 35-44 year-olds (28%). • The risks involved and fear that something could go wrong (20%). • It’s too expensive and/or their insurance won’t cover it (18%—women

65+ are less concerned about this, 7%).

Primary Reasons Women Will Not Have Cosmetic Surgery In the Future

Base: Women who probably/definitely will not have cosmetic surgery in future.

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ (1033) (306) (204) (212) (120) (191)

% % % % % %

Satisfied with appearance/no need 39 39 36 42 42 38

Against it in principle 22 23 28 18 19 22

Risks involved/fear 20 19 22 24 21 17

Too expensive/insurance doesn’t cover it 18 20 23 21 17 7

Q.28 - “Earlier you said you definitely or probably will not have any kind of cosmetic surgery in the future. What are your primary reasons for saying this?… Are there any other primary reasons you can think of?”


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Primary Reasons Men Will Not Undergo Cosmetic Surgery

Most (94%) men as well say they probably or definitely will not undergo cosmetic surgery in the future. They offer the same reasons for this as women, but are in much greater agreement on the primary reason—they are happy with their appearance. In fact, over half (54%) cite it as a reason, versus 39% of women. Other top reasons include: • They oppose it in principle (23%) • The risks involved and fear that something could wrong (9%) • It’s too expensive and/or their insurance won’t cover it (9%)

Primary Reasons Men Will Not Have Cosmetic Surgery In the Future

Base: Men who probably/definitely will not have cosmetic surgery in future.

Age

Total 18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ (748) (260) (160) (145) (80)* (103)

% % % % % %

Satisfied with appearance/no need 54 55 54 50 52 55

Against it in principle 23 24 22 22 26 22

Risks involved/fear 9 9 9 11 6 12

Too expensive/insurance doesn’t cover it 9 8 13 13 6 4

Q.28 - “Earlier you said you definitely or probably will not have any kind of cosmetic surgery in the future. What are your primary reasons for saying this?… Are there any other primary reasons you can think of?” *Caution: small base.


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Who Gets Cosmetic Surgery? Americans who intend to undergo cosmetic surgery some time in the future differ from those who do not plan to have cosmetic surgery in certain important respects and, to some extent, reflect the stereotypes detailed earlier. They place more importance on: • Maintaining an attractive physical appearance (90% say it is

“essential” or “important” versus 79% of people who will not have cosmetic surgery)

• Staying young-looking (73% versus 48%, respectively) • Professional advancement (82% versus 68%) • Having a lot of money (64% versus 49%) • Fulfilling job or career (89% versus 77%) They are more likely to describe themselves as: • Stylish (74% say it describes them “very” or “fairly well” versus 61%

of those who will not have cosmetic surgery) • Flirtatious (61% versus 45%) • Emotional (81% versus 75%) They are also more likely to be: • Women (71%) • To live in a large city (40% versus 22% who won’t get cosmetic

surgery) • Slightly younger than average (39 years old versus the average age of

45)

People who get cosmetic surgery are also far more likely to take—and intend in the future to take—a wide variety of steps to stay younger-looking, such as exercising, using Retin-A, cosmetics to hide age spots, etc.


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Profile of People Who Intend to Have Cosmetic Surgery


Def/Prob

Will Get CS Total Yes No (2008) (206) (1781)

% % %

Essential/Important:

Fulfilling career 85 92 85

Maintaining an attractive physical appearance 80 90 79

Professional advancement 69 82 68

Staying young-looking 51 73 48

Having a lot of money 50 64 49

Describes very/fairly well:

Intellectual 90 95 90

Emotional 75 81 74

Stylish 62 74 61

Flirtatious 46 61 45

Demography

Live in large city 24 40 22

Male 48 29 50

Female 52 71 50

Mean age (years old) 45 39 45


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Procedures They Are Willing To Receive Among those who expect to have cosmetic surgery some time in the future, men and women have different priorities. Women have a much wider range of things they want to do, including: • Face lift (20%) • Eyelid surgery (19%) • Tummy tuck (18%) • Breast augmentation (16%) • Liposuction (15%) • Laser skin resurfacing/dermabrasian (14%) In contrast, men show a clear preference for one procedure—a hair transplant/implant (20%). About one in eight (13%) also expect to get a face lift. This preference clearly reflects men’s relative insecurity about their hair, as discussed earlier.


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Cosmetic Surgery Procedures Will Have Done in Future

Base: Definitely/probably will have cosmetic surgery in future. Most common mentions.

Gender

Total Men Women (206) (46)* (160)

% % %

Face lift 18 13 20

Eyelid surgery 15 6 19

Tummy tuck 15 6 18

Laser skin resurfacing/ dermabrasian 12 9 14

Liposuction 12 4 15

Breast augmentation 12 -- 16

Breast reduction 8 5 9

Nose reshaping 7 8 7

Hair transplant/implant 6 20 1

Collagen injection 2 4 1 Q.29 - “Earlier you said you definitely or probably will have some kind of cosmetic surgery in the future. What procedure or procedures do you intend to have done?” *Caution: small base.


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Primary Reasons People Choose to Undergo Cosmetic Surgery Asked why they will undergo surgery, men and women who intend to get it agree they will do so simply to “look better” (22% and 24%, respectively). Beyond that, women are a bit more loquacious than men, offering reasons having to do with trying to stay young-looking (11% versus 6%) and to feel better about themselves (15% versus 6%).


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Primary Reasons Will Have Cosmetic Surgery Procedures in Future

Base: Definitely/probably will have cosmetic surgery in future. Most common mentions.

Gender

Total Men Women (206) (46)* (160)

% % %

To look better/younger 32 28 34

Aging-related (net) 19 11 22

To stay young looking/to look young 9 6 11

To remove wrinkles 7 5 7

To remove bags under eyes 3 -- 4

To feel better about self (net) 15 11 17

To feel better about myself 12 6 15

For self confidence 4 7 3 Q.29 - “What are the primary reasons you probably or definitely will have cosmetic surgery some time in the future?” *Caution: small base.

Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery Focus On Persons Who Have Had Cosmetic Surgery

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IX. Focus On Persons Who Have Had Cosmetic Surgery

The data reported in this chapter come from 507 interviews conducted online with America Online (AOL) subscribers who have had cosmetic surgery. Unlike the data reported in earlier chapters, these data are not nationally representative. However, given the hard-to-reach nature of people who have had cosmetic surgery, this approach to locating a sample is both reasonable and cost-effective. For additional details, see the methods section at the beginning of this report.

More Intense In Values, Less Satisfied Essential Aspects of Life Majorities of Americans who have had cosmetic surgery say a range of aspects of life are “essential” to them personally—feeling good about themselves (80%), spending time with family (76%), a fulfilling relationship with their spouse/significant other (76%), and having time to pursue personal interests (63%). Interestingly, in all respects except having a “fulfilling spiritual or religious life,” Americans who have had cosmetic surgery are more likely than Americans generally to say key aspects of their lives are “essential’ to them personally. This is perhaps most true when it comes to maintaining physical appearance and staying young-looking—they are more than twice as likely as average Americans to say the following are “essential:” • Maintaining an attractive physical appearance (46% versus 20% of all

Americans) • Staying young looking (30% versus 12%, respectively)

But like Americans generally, those who have had cosmetic surgery are most likely to say “feeling good about myself” (80%),” “spending time with family” (76%), and “a fulfilling relationship with my spouse/partner” (76%) are “essential” to them.


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Satisfaction With Aspects of Life Americans who have had cosmetic surgery are generally satisfied with the way things are going. Compared to other aspects of their lives, they are relatively likely to say they are “completely” or “somewhat” satisfied with the way they look for their age (87%), followed by more “essential” aspects such as feeling good about themselves (83%) and their relationship with their spouse/significant other (79%). But a comparison with the general public reveals that Americans who have had cosmetic surgery are more demanding and less satisfied with key aspects of their lives than are Americans overall. When it comes to their physical appearance, despite the fact that they have had cosmetic surgery, these people are less likely than average Americans to say they are satisfied with the way they look for their age (87% versus 93%, respectively) and with their overall physical appearance (70% versus 88%, respectively). Nevertheless, it should be noted that solid majorities are satisfied with their appearance—just not to same extent as other Americans.


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Essential Factors In The Lives of Americans

Base: Total respondents to whom item applies. Base sizes vary by item. (% say item is “essential” to them)

Have Had Cosmetic Surgery General Public

Total 18- 44

45- 54 55+ Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+

(507) (273) (112) (122) (2008) (1068) (403) (516)

% % % % % % % %

Feeling good about myself 80 83 79 77 51 56 46 42

Spending time with family 76 79 73 73 60 63 61 55

A fulfilling relationship with my spouse/significant other1 76 79 72 71 60 64 59 52

Having time to pursue personal interests 63 60 63 70 32 35 32 26

Staying healthy and physically fit 62 56 62 75 51 51 50 51

Spending time with friends 47 44 42 58 25 26 21 27 Maintaining an attractive physical appearance 46 44 49 47 20 20 17 20

A fulfilling job or career2 45 51 37 32 35 41 29 27 A fulfilling spiritual or religious life3 41 38 41 48 43 41 45 47 Staying young looking 30 29 35 26 12 12 11 13 Professional advancement4 28 36 19 13 21 26 15 12 Having a lot of money 18 18 21 14 12 15 9 10

Q.1 - “To begin, I am going to read some things that may or may not be important to you personally. For each one, please tell me whether it is essential, not very important, or not at all important to you. If something doesn’t apply, just let me know. First…” 1CS=468/GP=1863; 2CS=451/GP=1857; 3CS=481/GP=1993; 4CS=440/GP=1856.


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Satisfaction Among Americans With Various Aspects of Their Lives Base: Total respondents to whom item applies. Base sizes vary per item. (% say they are “completely” or “somewhat satisfied” with item)


Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+ Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+

(507) (273) (112) (122) (2008) (1068) (403) (516)

% % % % % % % %

The way I look for my age 87 88 85 88 93 94 92 93 Feeling good about myself 83 81 83 86 95 95 93 97 My relationship with my spouse or significant other1 79 77 74 88 83 84 84 78

My spiritual or religious life2 78 70 83 90 89 86 92 93 The amount of time I get to spend with my family 75 75 78 74 81 80 77 86

The amount of time I get to spend on my personal interests

72 66 75 82 78 74 73 87

My physical appearance 70 68 70 75 88 89 82 91 The amount of time I get to spend with my friends 69 61 75 80 81 77 78 89

My career track3 68 63 74 81 74 79 76 58 How fulfilling my job is4 68 66 67 78 74 78 77 59 My health and fitness 65 60 63 76 84 86 78 84 The amount of money I have 65 55 71 83 73 69 73 81

Q.2 - “For each of the following, please tell me whether you are completely satisfied with it, somewhat satisfied, somewhat dissatisfied, or completely dissatisfied with it. Again, if something doesn’t apply to you, just let me know. First…” 1CS=411/GP=1803; 2CS=432/GP=1910; 3CS=411/GP=1773; 4CS=409/GP=1739.


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Rating Physical Appearance Most (69%) Americans who have had cosmetic surgery consider themselves to be about average, or slightly above average, when it comes to their physical attractiveness. Asked to rate their physical appearance on a 0-10 point scale, Americans who have had cosmetic surgery are, like the general public, most likely to give themselves a middling, 5-7 point rating (69% versus 68% of the general public). Moreover, they are not more likely to give themselves a top, 8-10 point rating (22% versus 24%, respectively). It appears that, despite having undergone a cosmetic surgery procedure, these Americans do not feel that they are more attractive than average Americans because of it.


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Americans Rate Their Physical Appearance On a 0-10 Point Scale


Have Had Cosmetic Surgery

General Public

Total 18- 44

45- 54

55+

Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+

(507) (273) (112) (122) (2008) (1068) (403) (516)

% % % % % % % %

8-10

22 21 22 24 24 27 19 20

5-7

69 68 69 72 68 68 71 72

0-4

9 9 11 5 5 5 8 7

Q.8 - “Using the same 0-to-10 point scale we used a few questions back where a "Perfect 10" is extremely attractive, 0 is extremely unattractive, and 5 is average, how would you rate your own appearance?"


Page 78

Taking More Steps To Look Better and/or Younger Measures Have Taken Americans who have had cosmetic surgery work hard to maintain their appearance in other ways as well. In fact, over half have at some time maintained a healthful diet, exercised regularly, gone on a diet, had a facial, used hair coloring to hide grey, and used cosmetics to hide signs of aging. Indeed, Americans who have had cosmetic surgery work harder than average Americans to maintain their appearance—fewer than three in ten Americans in general have ever used hair coloring to hide grey, had a facial, or used cosmetics to cover up age marks or other signs of aging. Those who have had cosmetic surgery are also far more likely than the average American to have: • Gone on a diet (83% versus 54% of the general public) • Used skin products such as Retin-A to reduce or prevent wrinkles

(47% versus 14%, respectively) • Had a chemical peel/dermabrasian (18% versus 3%) • Used hair replenishing lotions (16% versus 4%) • Had a temporary cosmetic procedure (15% versus 2%)

Measures Will Take In the Future Americans who have had cosmetic surgery not only are more likely than the general public to have already taken certain steps to maintain their appearance, they also are more likely to continue doing so in the future. It is striking to note that the majority (57%) of people who have already undergone a cosmetic surgery procedure intend to do so again. Indeed, they are six times more likely than the general public to say they will do so. They are also five times more likely to say they will undergo a temporary cosmetic procedure (27% versus 5% of Americans generally).


Page 79

Efforts Taken To Look Better/Younger Base: Total respondents. (% have ever done.)


Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+ Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+

(507) (273) (112) (122) (2008) (1068) (403) (516)

% % % % % % % %

Had elective cosmetic surgery of any kind, including facial, body, or hair transplant/implant surgery

100 100 100 100 4 4 4 3

Maintained a healthful, well-balanced diet 96 94 97 96 85 82 87 90

Maintained a regular exercise routine 91 90 94 91 82 86 81 75

Gone on a weight-loss or weight-reduced diet 83 81 84 87 54 50 63 53

Had a facial 62 63 67 58 24 25 25 20

Used hair coloring to hide grey 55 44 64 71 28 20 44 34

Used cosmetics to cover up age marks or other signs of aging 53 46 60 66 18 12 21 26

Used skin products such as Retin-A to reduce or prevent wrinkles 47 47 50 49 14 13 13 16

Had a chemical peel or dermabrasian 18 16 22 18 3 3 3 3

Used hair replenishing lotions such as Monoxidil or Rogaine 16 17 16 11 4 5 5 3

Had a temporary cosmetic procedure, such as collagen or botox injections

15 11 19 22 2 2 1 2

Q.15 - “For each of the following, please tell me whether you are currently doing it, have done it in the past but aren’t doing it now, or have never done it. First…”


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Predict Will Do In the Future

Base: Total respondents. (% “probably” or “definitely will do” in the future)


Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+ Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+

(507) (273) (112) (122) (2008) (1068) (403) (516)

% % % % % % % %

Maintain a healthful, well-balanced diet 91 90 93 91 91 91 90 90

Maintain a regular exercise routine 85 85 86 83 86 90 85 79

Go on a weight-loss or weight-reducing diet 79 82 79 71 55 58 64 43

Use hair coloring to hide Grey 74 77 76 64 40 45 45 28

Use cosmetics to cover up age marks or other signs of aging 73 73 72 76 35 37 35 31

Get a facial 71 78 67 58 38 44 38 26

Use skin products such as Retin-A to reduce or prevent wrinkles 59 61 64 48 26 30 24 19

Have elective cosmetic surgery of any kind, including facial, body, or hair transplant/implant surgery

57 59 61 47 9 11 10 6

Have a chemical peel or dermabrasian 35 40 34 25 8 10 8 4

Use hair replenishing lotions such as Monoxidil or Rogaine 18 21 17 11 11 13 11 6

Get a temporary cosmetic procedure, such as collagen or botox injections

27 27 29 26 5 5 3 4

Q.16 - “For each of the following, please tell me whether you think you definitely will do it in the future, probably will do it, probably will not do it, or definitely will not do it in the future. First…”


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Procedures Undergone Americans who have had cosmetic surgery are most likely to have undergone the following procedures: • Nose reshaping (19%) • Eyelid surgery (17%), especially among mature Americans (e.g., 43%

of those age 55+ versus 3% of those 18-44) • Breast augmentation (12%) • Laser skin resurfacing/dermabrasian (11%) • Liposuction (11%) • Breast reduction (8%) • Face lift (8%), especially among mature Americans (e.g., 25% of those

age 55+ versus less than 1% of those 18-44) • Removal of blemishes/scars (8%)


Page 82

Cosmetic Surgery Procedures Have Undergone

Base: Have had cosmetic surgery. Most common procedures.


Total 18- 44

45- 54

55+ (507) (273) (112) (122)

% % % %

Nose reshaping

19 19 23 16

Eyelid surgery

17 3 21 43

Breast augmentation

12 13 13 11

Laser skin resurfacing/dermabrasian

11 12 11 11

Liposuction

11 10 14 10

Breast reduction

8 8 8 8

Face lift

8 * 8 25

Remove/correct blemishes/scars 8 11 6 2 Q.31 - “Earlier you indicated you at one time had cosmetic surgery. What procedure or procedures did you have done?”


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Cosmetic Surgery Has Positive Effects Though they do not rate themselves as more attractive than average Americans, persons who have had cosmetic surgery say the procedure(s) had numerous positive, intended effects. In fact, half or more say that, as a result of the surgery: • I feel better about myself (76%) • I am happy with the way I look (75%) • I don’t feel self-conscious about my appearance (67%) • I feel more desirable (53%) • I look the way I’ve always wanted to look (53%) Nearly half (49%) of those 55+ say the surgery has made them look younger than they used to.


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Positive Effects of Cosmetic Surgery

Base: Have had cosmetic surgery. (% describes “very” or “fairly” well)


Total 18- 44

45- 54

55+ (507) (273) (112) (122)

% % % %

I feel better about myself

76 75 79 76

I am happy with the way I look

75 73 79 76

I don't feel self-conscious about my appearance

67 66 70 66

I feel more desirable

53 60 50 41

I look the way I've always wanted to look

53 55 58 44

I look sexier than I used to

47 55 39 35

I look younger than I used to 35 26 42 49 Q.35 - “For each of the statements below, please type in whether, as a result of your cosmetic surgery, it describes you very well, fairly well, not very well, not at all, or doesn't apply.”


Page 85

Other Observations Not only do people feel better about themselves due to their cosmetic surgery, but they observe other beneficial effects as well. For example, majorities say they received positive feedback from others: • “Among those who knew I was going to have the surgery done, most

said I ‘looked great’ when they saw me after the procedure” (75%) • “Of those who did not know I was going to have the surgery done,

most said I ‘looked great’ even though they might not have known why.” (62%)

Moreover, few believe the effects of the surgery are obvious, with only 7% saying “most people, when they meet me for the first time, can probably tell I had some cosmetic surgery.” One additional interesting finding: About one in five (18%) people who have had cosmetic surgery fibbed a bit and told people they had it done for medical—not cosmetic—reasons.


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Other Observations

Base: Have had cosmetic surgery. (% say statement is "generally true")


Total 18- 44

45- 54

55+ (507) (273) (112) (122)

% % % %

Among those who knew I was going to have the surgery done, most said I “looked great” when they saw me after the procedure.

75 77 79 70

Of those people who did not know I was going to have the surgery done, most said I “looked great” even though they might not have known why.

62 62 61 63

After the surgery, I fibbed a little bit and told people I had it done for medical reasons.

18 22 16 13

Most people, when they meet me for the first time, can probably tell I had some cosmetic surgery.

7 8 9 2

Q.36 - “For each of the statements below, please type in whether it is generally true, or generally not true.”


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Differing Views of Beauty A majority of Americans who have had cosmetic surgery believe physical beauty is more important than inner beauty. They are also inclined to believe that men get distinguished looking as they age whereas women just get old looking. These views are strikingly different from those of average Americans: • Whereas 53% believe “Inner beauty is nice, but in the real world,

physical beauty is what really counts,” only 35% of average Americans agree, believing instead that inner beauty is what really counts (60%).

• Over half (55%) of Americans who have had cosmetic surgery agree that “As they age, men usually get distinguished looking; women just get old looking.” Only three in ten (30%) of the general public agrees.


Page 88

Physical or Inner Beauty—What Counts In the Real World?



Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+ Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+

(507) (273) (112) (122) (2008) (1068) (403) (516)

% % % % % % % %

Inner beauty is nice, but in the real world, physical beauty is what really counts

53 55 56 48 35 38 34 31

Physical beauty is nice, but in the real world, inner beauty is what really counts

47 45 44 52 60 58 62 65

Q.6 - “I’m going to read two statements. When I have finished reading both, please tell me which one you agree with more. First…[ROTATE:] Inner beauty is nice, but in the real world, physical beauty is what really counts; [OR] Physical beauty is nice, but in the real world, inner beauty is what really counts.”


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Men Get Distinguished Looking - Women Just Grow Old Looking

Base: Total respondents. (% agree with statement)


Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+ Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+

(507) (273) (112) (122) (2008) (1068) (403) (516)

% % % % % % % %

As they age…

Men usually get distinguished looking; women just get older looking

55 57 62 44 30 30 29 30

Men and women are equally likely to grow distinguished looking

41 40 33 51 62 64 65 57

Women usually get distinguished looking; men just get older looking

4 3 5 5 6 5 6 8

Q.7 - “I’m going to read three statements. When I have finished reading all three, please tell me which one you agree with most. First…”


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Differing Views of the Benefits of Cosmetic Surgery Though over half (61%) of Americans who know someone who has had cosmetic surgery agree that it has made the person “look better,” those who have actually had it are more inclined to agree (82%) that such people improved their appearance. Americans who have had cosmetic surgery are also especially inclined to agree that cosmetic surgery can help a person professionally: • “All things being equal, women who get cosmetic surgery to look

younger have professional advantages over women their age who just age naturally” (84% agree versus 66% of the general public)

• “All things being equal, men who get cosmetic surgery to look younger have professional advantages over men their age who just age naturally” (59% agree versus 43%, respectively)


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Americans Agree That Cosmetic Surgery Makes People Look Better

Base: Know someone who has had plastic surgery.


Total 18- 44

45- 54

55+

Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+

(432) (228) (95) (109) (1014) (546) (222) (236)

% % % % % % % %

Person looks better

82 79 82 90 61 58 62 66

Person looks worse

5 7 3 1 6 5 6 8

No real difference

9 10 12 7 24 26 28 19

DK/Refused 1 1 -- 2 6 9 4 7

Q.23 - “Compared to before he or she had the surgery, would you say the surgery made this person look much better, somewhat better, somewhat worse, much worse, or did it make no real difference? If you didn’t know them before the surgery, just let me know.”


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Professional Advantages of Cosmetic Surgery

Base: Total respondents (Y version). (% “strongly” or “somewhat” agree)


General Public

Total 18- 44

45- 54

55+

Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+

(253) (141) (55) (57) (1008) (524) (215) (261)

% % % % % % % %

All things being equal, women who get cosmetic surgery to look younger have professional advantages over women their age who just age naturally

84 82 84 89 66 65 69 66

All things being equal, men who get cosmetic surgery to look younger have professional advantages over men their age who just age naturally

59 50 65 72 43 38 45 53



Page 93

Differing Views on the Kinds of People Who Get Cosmetic Surgery Asked to describe “typical” kinds of people who get cosmetic surgery, those who have had it are most likely to say such people are average and normal. It is perhaps not surprising to observe that persons who have had cosmetic surgery are less likely than the general public to hold negative opinions of such people. • In fact, though the majority (56%) of people who have had cosmetic

surgery believe “typical kinds” of people get it, they are less inclined to believe so than Americans generally (65%).

• And, when asked to describe who gets cosmetic surgery, persons who have had it are far less likely to say they are “rich/upper class” (12% versus 34% of the general public), “insecure/unhappy with themselves” (6% versus 32%, respectively), and/or “vain/materialistic” (5% versus 27%). Rather, they say such people “could be anyone” (27% versus 2% of the general public).


Page 94

Do “Typical Kinds” of People Get Cosmetic Surgery? Base: Total respondents.


General Public

Total 18- 44

45- 54

55+

Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+

(507) (273) (112) (122) (2008) (1068) (403) (516)

% % % % % % % %

There are typical kinds of people who get cosmetic surgery

56 60 43 61 65 67 64 61

There are not typical kinds of people who get cosmetic surgery

44 40 57 39 29 29 33 28

Other/Don't know -- -- -- -- 6 3 4 12

Q.17 - “First, without meaning to stereotype, would you say there are typical kinds of people who get cosmetic surgery, or would you say there are not typical kinds of people who get it?”


Page 95

Americans Describe “Typical Kinds” of People Who Get Cosmetic Surgery

Base: Believe there are “typical kinds of people” who get cosmetic surgery.


General Public

Total 18- 44

45- 54

55+

Total

18- 44

45- 54 55+

(286) (164) (48) (74) (1300) (725) (228) (337)

% % % % % % % %

Could be anyone/average normal person

27

27

21

32

2

2

3

3

Profession-related/celebrities

17 18 21 15 13 12 16 14

Rich/upper class

12 11 13 12 34 38 37 22

Insecure/unhappy with themselves

6 6 6 4 32 30 34 33

Vain/materialistic

5 5 -- 8 27 25 31 29

Q.18 - “And how would you describe the typical kinds of people who get cosmetic surgery, in terms of their age, gender, socio-economic status, personality, and so forth?… Is there any other way you would describe them?”

Appendix – Annotated Questionnaires Note: In the report, data for questions 1, 2, 4, and 26 were re-based for analytic purposes. Percentages for those questions recorded in the following posted questionnaires, therefore, do not always match those in the report.

Roper Starch Worldwide Inc. AARP Job CNT-425 September 2000

COSMETIC SURGERY SURVEY—ONLINE

Posted Survey Results (Total N = 507)

The following survey is being conducted for a major magazine. All answers you provide will remain strictly anonymous and will be used only in combination with other respondents. We very much appreciate your participation. 1. Below are some things that may or may not be important to you personally. For each

one, please indicate whether it is essential to you, important but not essential, not very important, or not at all important to you.

Important Not Not at Doesn’t but not very all apply Essential essential important important to me

% % % % %

a. Spending time with family .. 76 18 4 1 1 b. Maintaining an attractive physical appearance............. 46 47 6 2 - c. Professional advancement ... 24 43 16 3 13 d. Staying healthy and physically fit ........................ 62 33 4 1 1 e. Having time to pursue personal interests ................. 63 33 3 1 * f. Spending time with friends . 47 43 9 1 - g. Having a lot of money......... 18 65 14 2 1 h. Staying young looking......... 30 52 13 4 * i. A fulfilling job or career...... 40 37 10 2 11 j. A fulfilling relationship with

my spouse or significant other..................................... 70 17 4 1 8

k. A fulfilling spiritual or religious life......................... 39 32 16 8 5

l. Feeling good about myself .. 80 17 1 1 *

Cosmetic Surgery Survey—Online Roper Starch Worldwide Inc. • 2

2. For each of the following, please indicate whether you are completely satisfied with it, somewhat satisfied, somewhat dissatisfied, or completely dissatisfied with it.

Some- Some- Doesn’t Completely what what Completely apply Satisfied Satisfied DissatisfiedDissatisfied to me

% % % % % a. The amount of time I get to

spend with my family............ 26 49 20 4 2 b. My physical appearance........ 11 60 23 6 * c. My career track ..................... 18 37 21 5 19 d. My health and fitness ............ 10 54 26 7 1 e. The amount of time I get to spend on my personal interests ................................. 20 52 22 5 1 f. The amount of time I get to spend with my friends........... 18 50 26 4 1 g. The amount of money I have 15 50 24 9 2 h. The way I look for my age .... 31 57 10 1 1 i. How fulfilling my job is........ 18 37 20 6 19 j. My relationship with my

spouse or significant other .... 31 33 13 5 19 k. My spiritual or religious life . 23 43 17 2 15 l. Feeling good about myself.... 24 59 14 3 1


3. Please indicate whether each of the following words describes you very well, fairly well, not very well, or not at all.

Describes Describes Describes Describes me very me fairly me not me not well well very well at all

% % % %

a. Content................................................. 21 59 18 2 b. Outgoing .............................................. 38 41 18 2 c. Ambitious ............................................ 33 46 19 2 d. Laid-back ............................................. 20 43 28 10 e. Culturally refined................................. 22 52 21 5 f. Intellectual ........................................... 42 49 8 1 g. Popular................................................. 18 61 18 3 h. Private .................................................. 35 41 20 4 i. Impatient .............................................. 25 44 23 8 j. Athletic ................................................ 11 35 35 19 k. Flirtatious............................................. 17 36 32 15 l. Fun-loving............................................ 47 48 5 1 m. Independent.......................................... 63 31 5 * n. Emotional............................................. 33 44 20 4 o. Stylish .................................................. 22 46 26 6


4. You may have heard some people rate particularly good-looking women and men as a “Perfect 10.” Using a scale from 0 to 10, where 10 is extremely attractive, 0 is extremely unattractive, and 5 is average, please rate the following celebrities and famous people on how you think they look today.

Never heard of/ Extremely Extremely Haven’t seen unattractive attractive them lately 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (X VERSION) a. Will Smith ...................... 2 2 2 3 2 14 12 20 22 10 6 5 b. Martha Stewart ............... 5 4 4 11 12 28 11 11 6 3 1 3 c. Jennifer Lopez .................- 2 3 3 4 9 12 14 15 14 16 7 d. Bruce Springsteen........... 3 1 9 6 9 23 14 13 9 2 2 9 e. Diane Keaton.................. 1 2 4 7 6 20 15 21 8 6 3 8 f. Barbra Streisand ............. 6 3 6 10 8 19 14 13 12 6 4 1 g. Tommy Lee Jones .......... 5 1 6 6 8 20 13 14 12 6 4 6 h. Oprah Winfrey................ 2 4 4 6 9 21 18 11 16 6 3 1 i. Cher ................................ 2 3 4 6 9 13 11 19 16 6 9 1 j. Robert Redford............... 2 2 * 2 4 13 12 18 19 13 12 2 k. Britney Spears ................ 1 1 3 3 5 13 11 11 19 14 15 4 l. Tina Turner..................... 2 3 6 5 7 11 12 15 17 9 11 2 m. Samuel L. Jackson.......... 4 2 4 8 8 19 13 14 9 3 2 14 n. Tony Bennett ................. 4 4 7 8 8 24 12 13 9 2 2 9 (Y VERSION) o. Joan Rivers ..................... 7 11 8 15 15 20 9 5 5 1 1 2 p. Jimmy Smits................... 2 1 2 3 4 19 11 15 12 10 8 14 q. Pamela Anderson Lee..... 1 4 3 5 7 14 8 17 16 7 11 7 r. Bill Cosby....................... 3 5 6 6 7 25 15 17 9 5 1 2 s. Goldie Hawn ...................- 1 3 3 2 8 9 18 28 16 10 2 t. Tom Brokaw................... 2 2 3 5 7 17 12 18 13 9 7 5 u. Roseanne Arnold ........... 13 13 15 13 13 19 6 4 1 2 - 2 v. Connie Chung................. 2 1 2 6 6 19 16 13 17 10 5 3 w. Sean Connery ................. 1 * 1 1 4 9 10 14 21 19 18 2 x. Cybill Shephard...............- 2 3 3 6 13 18 18 19 9 4 5 y. Mary Tyler Moore .......... 1 3 2 7 9 22 19 14 9 6 3 4 z. Tiger Woods................... 3 2 1 2 5 10 12 19 23 13 10 * aa. Richard Gere .................. * - 1 3 2 7 7 18 19 20 21 2


5. For each of the statements below, please type in whether you: Strongly Generally Generally Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Disagree

% % % %

a. There is a great deal of pressure on women to stay youthful looking as they age..................................................... 83 15 2 1

b. There is a great deal of pressure on men to stay youthful looking as they age ............................................................ 14 37 36 13

6. Below are two statements. When you have finished reading both, please type in the

number which corresponds to the one you agree with more. Inner beauty is nice, but in the real world, physical beauty is what

really counts ...............................................................................53% OR Physical beauty is nice, but in the real world, inner beauty is what

really counts ...............................................................................47%


7. Below are three statements. When you have finished reading all three, please type in the number which corresponds to the one you agree with most.

As men age, they usually get more distinguished looking. But

as women age, they usually just get older looking .....................55% OR As women age, they usually get more distinguished looking.

But as men age, they usually just get old looking ......................41% OR Men and women are equally likely to grow distinguished

looking as they age; they are also equally likely to just get old looking..........................................................................................4%

8. Using the same 0-to-10 point scale you used a few questions back to rate celebrities,

where a “perfect 10” is extremely attractive, 0 is extremely unattractive, and 5 is average, how would you rate your own overall appearance?

0............................................................................... * 1............................................................................... * 2............................................................................1% 3............................................................................2% 4............................................................................6% 5..........................................................................21% 6..........................................................................22% 7..........................................................................26% 8..........................................................................17% 9............................................................................3% 10..........................................................................2% 9. At what age do you think you reached—or will reach—your peak, in terms of physical

attractiveness? 18-24.....................................................................9% 25-34...................................................................33% 35-44...................................................................32% 45-54...................................................................14% 55-64.....................................................................6% 65+........................................................................4%


10. On an average day, do you think you look young, middle-aged, or old? Young.................................................................50% Middle-aged .......................................................48% Old........................................................................2% 11. At about what age do you think you started looking middle-aged? 18-24........................................................................ * 25-34.....................................................................8% 35-44...................................................................30% 45-54...................................................................41% 55-64...................................................................18% 65+........................................................................2% 12. At about what age do you think you started looking old? 18-24........................................................................-- 25-34........................................................................-- 35-44.....................................................................9% 45-54...................................................................18% 55-64...................................................................36% 65+......................................................................36% 13. Below are the names of some general parts of your body. For each one, please

indicate whether you are very satisfied with the way it looks, somewhat satisfied, somewhat dissatisfied, or very dissatisfied.

Some- Some- Very what what Very satisfied satisfied dissatisfieddissatisfied

% % % % a. Hair ....................................... 36 45 15 5 b. Facial features ....................... 24 58 16 2 c. Neck...................................... 30 48 19 4 d. Skin ....................................... 27 52 18 4 e. Upper body; that is, above the waist ................................ 21 50 23 6 f. Lower body; that is, the waist and below .................... 12 33 37 18


14. Below are some words that may or may not describe the way you feel about your body as it matures. For each one, please indicate whether it describes the way you feel very well, fairly well, not very well, or not at all.

Describes Describes Describes Describes my feelings my feelings my feelings my feelings very well well not very well not at all % % % %

a. Philosophical........................................ 15 44 26 15 b. Happy................................................... 16 47 29 8 c. Disappointed ......................................... 7 29 39 24 d. Pleased ................................................. 12 48 31 9 e. Resigned ............................................... 5 40 33 22 f. Fascinated ............................................. 9 27 34 30 g. Depressed.............................................. 6 20 39 35 h. Accepting............................................. 21 58 17 4 i. Afraid.................................................... 7 19 35 38


15. For each of the following, please indicate whether you are currently doing it, have done it in the past but aren’t doing it now, or have never done it.

Are Did in Have

currently past, but never doing it not now done it

% % % a. Maintained a regular exercise routine........................................ 54 37 9 b. Used hair coloring to hide gray . 42 13 45 c. Used cosmetics to cover up age marks or other signs of aging .... 40 13 46 d. Used skin products such as Retin-A to reduce or prevent wrinkles ..................................... 22 25 52 e. Gone an a weight-loss or weight-reducing diet.................. 34 49 17 f. Used hair replenishing lotions such as Monoxidil or Rogain ..... 5 11 84 g. Had elective cosmetic surgery

of any kind, including facial, body, or hair transplant/implant surgery........................................ -- 100 --

h. Maintained a healthful, well-balanced diet ..................... 71 25 5 i. Had a facial................................ 16 46 37 j. Had a chemical peel or

dermabrasian .............................. 3 15 82 k. Had a temporary cosmetic

procedure, such as collagen or botox injections...................... 2 13 85


16. For each of the following, please indicate whether you think you definitely will do it in the future, probably will do it, probably will not do it, or definitely will not do it in the future.

Definitely Probably Probably Definitely will do it will do it will not do it will not do it

% % % % a. Maintain a regular exercise routine........................................ 47 37 13 2 b. Use hair coloring to hide gray ... 51 22 15 11 c. Use cosmetics to cover up age marks or other signs of aging .... 39 35 17 10 d. Use skin products such as Retin-A to reduce or prevent wrinkles ..................................... 26 33 25 16 e. Go on a weight-loss or weight-reducing diet.................. 39 40 15 6 f. Use hair-replenishing lotions such as Monoxidil or Rogain ..... 9 9 33 49 g. Have elective cosmetic

surgery of any kind, including facial, body, or hair transplant/implant surgery......... 22 35 25 18

h. Maintain a healthful, well-balanced diet ..................... 52 39 8 1 i. Get a facial ................................ 35 35 21 8 j. Get a chemical peel or

dermabrasian ............................. 11 24 35 30 k. Have a temporary cosmetic procedure, such as collagen or botox injections..................... 10 17 34 39


These next questions focus on elective cosmetic surgery. Before we start, please read this brief description of what we mean by cosmetic surgery, just to make sure we are talking about the same thing. Elective cosmetic surgery is performed when a person wants to change or enhance his or her physical appearance. It is not usually paid for by insurance because it is not done for medical reasons. These surgeries can be performed on the body or the face. They include such things as liposuction, tummy tucks, face lifts, “nose jobs,” and breast implants, among others. For our purposes, hair transplants are also considered an elective cosmetic surgery procedure. We are not asking about plastic surgery that is done for medical purposes to restore form or function to a body part that is abnormal or disfigured due to trauma, cancer, birth defects, or surgery. 17. First, without meaning to stereotype, would you say there are typical kinds of people

who get cosmetic surgery, or would you say there are not typical kinds of people who get it?

Yes, there are..........................................................56% No, there are not .....................................................44%

18. And how would you describe the typical kinds of people who get cosmetic surgery, in

terms of their age, gender, socio-economic status, personality, and so forth?

(PLEASE TYPE YOUR ANSWER IN BELOW, BEING AS SPECIFIC AS POSSIBLE)

[___________________________________________________________________]


19. Below are two statements. When you have finished reading both, please type in the number which corresponds to the one you agree with more.

In principle, people should be happy with who they are and

not get elective cosmetic surgery ...............................................13% OR In principle, if someone is not happy with how they look,

there’s nothing wrong with their getting elective cosmetic surgery........................................................................................87%

20x. For each of the statements below, please type in whether you: Strongly Generally Generally Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Disagree a. Most women who get cosmetic

surgery to look younger are more vain than the average woman ............................ 25 38 31 6

b. Most women who get cosmetic surgery to look younger are more insecure about themselves than the average woman .......................................... 23 32 32 12

c. Most men who get cosmetic surgery to look younger are more vain than the average man ......................................... 33 40 21 6

d. Most men who get cosmetic surgery to look younger are more insecure about themselves than the average man ............................................................ 31 32 29 8


20y. For each of the statements below, please type in whether you:

Strongly Generally Generally Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Disagree e. All things being equal, women who

get cosmetic surgery to look younger have professional advantages over women their age who just age naturally ..................................................... 36 48 13 3

f. All things being equal, men who get cosmetic surgery to look younger have professional advantages over men their age who just age naturally ......... 17 42 35 6

g. In general, it is more socially acceptable for a woman to get cosmetic surgery than for a man to get it ....................................................... 35 42 17 7

.

21. Do you know anyone who has ever had cosmetic surgery, not including yourself? He

or she could be a family member, friend, or acquaintance. Yes..........................................................................85% No...........................................................................15%


22a. Thinking about the person you know who most recently had cosmetic surgery, to the best of your knowledge, what procedure or procedures did they have done? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)

N=432

Breast augmentation ...............................................35% Breast reduction......................................................18% Collagen injection ..................................................12% Eyelid surgery.........................................................32% Face Lift .................................................................35% Hair transplant/implant............................................6% Laser skin resurfacing/dermabrasian......................15% Liposuction.............................................................26% Nose reshaping .......................................................20% Tummy tuck ...........................................................12% Remove/correct blemishes/scars .............................1% Other ......................................................................6%

22b. What other cosmetic surgery procedure(s) did this person have done? [______________________________________________________] 23. Compared to before he or she had the surgery, would you say the surgery made this

person look… Much better ............................................................39% Somewhat better.....................................................44% Somewhat worse .....................................................4% Much worse .............................................................1% It made no real difference........................................9% Didn’t know them before the surgery......................2% Too early to tell .......................................................1%


24. Now when you see this person, are you more likely to think “they look [INSERT RESPONSE FROM Q.23]” or to think “they look like they had cosmetic surgery?”

“They look different ....................................................87% “They look like they had cosmetic surgery”.................13% “They look much better” ............................................97% “They look like they had cosmetic surgery”................ 3% “They look somewhat better”.....................................85% “They look like they had cosmetic surgery”.................15% “They look somewhat worse” .....................................35% “They look like they had cosmetic surgery”.................65% 25. How has the cosmetic surgery affected your opinion of this person, if at all? Do you

think much better of them as a person, somewhat better of them, somewhat worse of them, much worse of them, or has your opinion of them not been affected by their having had the surgery?

Much better .............................................................6% Somewhat better......................................................8% Somewhat worse .....................................................6% Much worse .............................................................1% Opinion not affected...............................................78% 26. Imagine for a moment that, either now or some time in the future, someone close to

you wanted to get elective cosmetic surgery. For each of the following, do you think you would, on balance, strongly support their getting the surgery, generally support it, generally oppose it, or strongly oppose it?

Would Would Would Would Doesn’t strongly generally generally strongly apply support support oppose oppose to me

% % % % % a. Your mother.................... 28 36 11 7 18 b. Your father...................... 21 31 13 7 28 c. Your spouse or significant other .............. 31 41 12 6 10 d. Your best friend .............. 42 47 8 2 1 e. An adult son.................... 26 36 13 5 20 f. An adult daughter............ 30 38 9 4 19


27a. Imagine for a moment that you could have any cosmetic surgery procedure done safely and for free—and that no one would know unless you told them. Please indicate which of the following procedures, if any, you would have done. (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY) Breast augmentation ...............................................17% Breast reduction.......................................................9% Collagen injection ..................................................15% Eyelid surgery.........................................................27% Face Lift .................................................................32% Hair transplant/implant............................................8% Laser skin resurfacing/dermabrasian......................29% Liposuction.............................................................47% Nose reshaping .......................................................17% Tummy tuck ...........................................................41% Other........................................................................8% None. I would have no procedure done.................... * Don’t know..............................................................9%

27b. [ASK IF Q.27a=11, ELSE SKIP TO Q28] What other cosmetic surgery

procedure(s) would you have done? [______________________________________________________] 28. [ASK IF Q16g=3 OR 4, ELSE SKIP TO Q29] Earlier you indicated you definitely

or probably will not have any kind of cosmetic surgery in the future. What are your primary reasons for saying this?

(PLEASE TYPE YOUR ANSWER IN BELOW, BEING AS SPECIFIC AS

POSSIBLE)

[___________________________________________________________________]


29a. Earlier you indicated you definitely or probably will have some kind of cosmetic surgery in the future. What procedure or procedures do you intend to have done? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)

Breast augmentation ...............................................12% Breast reduction.......................................................6% Collagen injection ..................................................10% Eyelid surgery.........................................................22% Face Lift .................................................................34% Hair transplant/implant............................................6% Laser skin resurfacing/dermabrasian......................26% Liposuction.............................................................26% Nose reshaping ........................................................7% Tummy tuck ...........................................................15% Other .....................................................................10%

29b. [ASK IF Q.29a=11, ELSE SKIP TO Q30] What other cosmetic surgery procedure(s) do you intend to have done? [______________________________________________________]

30. [ASK IF Q16g=1 OR 2] What are the primary reasons you probably or definitely will have cosmetic surgery some time in the future?

(PLEASE TYPE YOUR ANSWER IN BELOW, BEING AS SPECIFIC AS

POSSIBLE)

[___________________________________________________________________]

31a. Earlier you indicated you at one time had cosmetic surgery. What procedure or procedures did

you have done? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)

Breast augmentation ...............................................12% Breast reduction.......................................................8% Collagen injection ...................................................5% Eyelid surgery.........................................................17% Face Lift ..................................................................8% Hair transplant/implant............................................4% Laser skin resurfacing/dermabrasian......................11% Liposuction.............................................................11% Nose reshaping .......................................................19% Tummy tuck ............................................................5% Other .....................................................................33%


31b. [ASK IF Q.31a=11, ELSE SKIP TO Q32] What other cosmetic surgery procedure(s) have you had done?

[______________________________________________________] 32. At what age did you have the PROCEDURE(S) done?

Under 20.............................................................11% 20-29...................................................................29% 30-39...................................................................21% 40-49...................................................................18% 50-59...................................................................11% 60-69.....................................................................3% 70+............................................................................ * 33. What are the primary reasons you had the cosmetic surgery? (PLEASE TYPE YOUR ANSWER IN BELOW, BEING AS SPECIFIC AS

POSSIBLE)

[___________________________________________________________________]

34. Please indicate if you ever had a cosmetic surgery procedure that coincided with each

of the following life events. Never happened Yes No to me

% % % a. A divorce ..................................... 3 49 48 b. A breakup with a girlfriend or boyfriend...................................... 4 64 33 c. Death of a spouse or significant other ............................................. 1 47 52 d. Job search..................................... 3 63 34 e. Birth of a child ............................. 5 52 43 f. Wedding of your son or daughter 2 46 52 g. School reunion ............................. 3 60 37 h. Death of a parent.......................... 2 54 44


35. For each of the statements below, please type in whether, as a result of your cosmetic surgery, it describes you:

Very Fairly Not very Not at Doesn’t Well Well Well All Apply

% % % % %

a. I am happy with the way I look... 35 40 11 4 10 b. I look younger than I used to ...... 16 19 15 18 32 c. I look sexier than I used to.......... 20 26 17 14 22 d. My spouse or partner is happier with my appearance ....... 17 19 10 11 42 e. I don’t feel self conscious about my appearance................... 33 34 14 7 12 f. My chances for professional advancement have improved ...... 10 11 14 20 45 g. I feel more desirable.................... 24 30 15 13 19 h. I look the way I’ve always wanted to look............................. 17 36 18 14 16 i. I feel better about myself ............ 44 32 7 5 12 36. For each of the statements below, please type in whether it is: .................................................................. Generally .................................................................. GenerallyNot .................................................................. True True ..................................................... % % a. Among those people who knew

I was going to have the surgery done, most said I “looked great” when they saw me after the procedure .................................................. 75 25

b. Of those people who did not know I was going to have the surgery done, most said I “looked great” even though they might not have known why....................... 62 38

c. Most people, when they meet me for the first time, can probably tell I had some cosmetic surgery ....................................... 7 93

d. After I had the surgery, I fibbed a little bit and told people I had it done for medical reasons ....................... 18 82


D1. Now, we just a few questions for statistical purposes...

What is your age? 18-24.....................................................................8% 25-29...................................................................10% 30-34...................................................................11% 35-39...................................................................11% 40-44...................................................................13% 45-49...................................................................13% 50-54.....................................................................9% 55-59...................................................................12% 60-64.....................................................................4% 65-69.....................................................................5% 70+........................................................................3% D2. What was the last level of education you completed? Less than high school .............................................. * High school graduate............................................8% Post high-school vocational training ....................2% Some college ......................................................34% College graduate.................................................28% Some post-graduate work.....................................7% Post-graduate degree ..........................................20% Prefer not to answer..............................................1% D3. Which one of the following best describes your employment status? Work full-time....................................................54% Work part-time ...................................................17% Full-time homemaker ...........................................7% Unemployed, laid off, or

looking for work...................................................4% Retired ................................................................13%


D4. [ASK IF D3=1 OR 2] Are you in a senior, mid-level, or junior position at your place

of work? N=357 Senior .................................................................36% Mid-level ............................................................46% Junior..................................................................18% D5. Which one of the following best describes where you live? In a large city ......................................................33% In a suburban area or town near a larger city......49% In a smaller town not associated with a larger city12% In a rural area........................................................6% D6. Which one of the following best describes you? Married ...............................................................49% Living with a steady partner, but not married ....11% Have a steady partner, but don’t live with him/her11% Single without a steady partner ..........................29% D7. Have you ever been… (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY) Divorced .............................................................39% Separated ..............................................................8% Widowed ..............................................................6% None of the above .................................................... - Refused/no answer .............................................56% D8. What do you consider to be your racial or ethnic background? White/Caucasian.................................................86% Black /African American......................................2% Asian/Pacific Islander...........................................3% Hispanic................................................................5% Other......................................................................... -


D9. Do you consider yourself Hispanic or Latino? Yes........................................................................6% No.......................................................................90% Prefer not to answer..............................................4% D10. Below is a list of income ranges. Please indicate which range contains your current

annual pre-tax household income. We need this information for statistical purposes only.

Less than $10,000.................................................1% $10,000 to $19,999...............................................2% $20,000 to $29,999...............................................5% $30,000 to $39,999...............................................8% $40,000 to $49,999.............................................10% $50,000 to $74,999.............................................20% $75,000 to $99,999.............................................11% $100,000 to $149,000.........................................11% $150,000 to $199,999...........................................4% $200,000 or more .................................................4% Prefer not to answer............................................23%

Roper Starch Worldwide Inc. AARP Job CNT-425 September 2000

COSMETIC SURGERY SURVEY—GENERAL PUBLIC

Posted Survey Results (Total N = 2008)

Respondent Name: ____________________________________________________

Interviewer Name: _____________________________________________________

Phone #: _____________________________________________________________

Date:___________________________________ Time Started: _______________

Time Ended: ________________

1. To begin, I am going to read some things that may or may not be important to you

personally. For each one, please tell me whether it is essential to you, important but not essential, not very important, or not at all important to you. If something doesn’t apply, just let me know. First… Not Not at Very all Doesn’t DK/ Essential Imp. Imp. Imp. Apply Ref. % % % % % % a. Spending time with family ... 60 36 2 1 1 * b. Maintaining an attractive physical appearance.............. 20 60 18 2 * * c. Professional advancement .... 19 44 22 6 8 1 d. Staying healthy and physically fit ......................... 51 46 2 * * * e. Having time to pursue personal interests .................. 32 58 8 2 * * f. Spending time with friends .. 25 60 13 1 * * g. Having a lot of money.......... 12 38 45 5 * * h. Staying young looking.......... 12 38 42 7 1 * i. A fulfilling job or career....... 33 46 9 4 8 * j. A fulfilling relationship with

my spouse or significant other...................................... 55 31 4 2 7 *

k. A fulfilling spiritual or religious life.......................... 43 40 12 4 1 *

l. Feeling good about myself ... 51 47 2 1 * *

Cosmetic Surgery Survey—Phone Roper Starch Worldwide Inc. • 2

2. For each of the following, please tell me whether you are completely satisfied with it, somewhat satisfied, somewhat dissatisfied, or completely dissatisfied with it. Again, if something doesn’t apply to you, just let me know. First…

Some- Some- Completely what what Completely Doesn’t DK/ Satis. Satis. Dissatis. Dissatis. Apply Ref.

% % % % % % a. The amount of time I get to

spend with my family.............. 36 45 14 3 1 1 b. My physical appearance.......... 29 59 9 1 * * c. My career track ....................... 26 39 11 4 12 8 d. My health and fitness .............. 29 55 13 2 * * e. The amount of time I get to spend on my personal interests ................................... 27 50 18 4 * * f. The amount of time I get to spend with my friends............. 30 51 15 3 1 * g. The amount of money I have .. 21 52 17 8 1 1 h. The way I look for my age ...... 50 44 4 1 1 1 i. How fulfilling my job is.......... 25 39 10 4 14 8 j. My relationship with my

spouse or significant other ...... 50 25 5 3 10 7 k. My spiritual or religious life ... 41 44 8 1 5 1 l. Feeling good about myself...... 47 49 4 1 * *


3. Please tell me whether each of the following words describes you very well, fairly well, not very well, or not at all. First…

Not Very Fairly Very Not at Well Well Well all DK

% % % % %

a. Content............................................ 45 45 7 3 1 b. Outgoing ......................................... 46 38 12 3 * c. Ambitious ....................................... 38 41 13 6 1 d. Laid-back ........................................ 38 39 15 7 1 e. Culturally refined............................ 26 47 18 6 3 f. Intellectual ...................................... 37 54 7 2 1 g. Popular............................................ 25 56 12 4 3 h. Private ............................................. 43 39 13 4 1 i. Impatient ......................................... 27 30 25 17 1 j. Athletic ........................................... 21 36 25 17 1 k. Flirtatious........................................ 20 26 26 25 2 l. Fun-loving....................................... 59 36 4 1 * m. Independent..................................... 67 29 3 1 * n. Emotional........................................ 34 41 19 5 1 o. Stylish ............................................. 22 40 26 11 1


4. You may have heard some people rate particularly good-looking women and men as a “Perfect 10.” Using a scale from 0 to 10, where 10 is extremely attractive, 0 is extremely unattractive, and 5 is average, please rate the following celebrities and famous people on how you think they look today. If you’ve never heard of someone, or if you haven’t seen them lately, just let me know. First…

Extremely Extremely Not heard Unattractive Attractive of/seen DK/ 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Lately Ref. % % % % % % % % % % % % % (X VERSION) a. Will Smith ................. 2 1 1 1 2 12 7 15 18 9 11 8 12 b. Martha Stewart .......... 3 3 4 6 8 26 11 11 7 3 3 6 9 c. Jennifer Lopez ........... * 1 1 2 2 8 6 12 18 14 16 9 13 d. Bruce Springsteen...... 2 2 3 6 8 23 11 9 6 3 3 14 11 e. Diane Keaton............. 1 * 1 2 4 17 11 16 11 4 4 15 14 f. Barbra Streisand ........ 5 3 4 6 8 19 12 11 13 4 8 4 2 g. Tommy Lee Jones ..... 2 1 3 4 6 18 12 15 10 4 6 9 10 h. Oprah Winfrey........... 3 2 3 5 7 21 13 15 12 5 9 3 2 i. Cher ........................... 3 2 4 6 9 17 11 13 13 8 10 3 2 j. Robert Redford.......... 1 1 1 1 3 14 9 16 18 9 12 8 7 k. Britney Spears ........... 1 * 2 2 3 10 7 13 17 13 14 7 11 l. Tina Turner................ 2 2 2 4 5 15 9 13 18 10 13 5 3 m. Samuel L. Jackson..... 2 1 2 1 3 12 9 11 12 6 5 17 20 n. Tony Bennett ............ 2 1 2 4 4 17 12 12 10 4 5 13 13 (Y VERSION) o. Joan Rivers ................ 5 5 7 12 13 23 9 6 5 2 1 8 4 p. Jimmy Smits.............. 1 * 1 1 2 9 6 10 13 6 7 20 23 q. Pamela Anderson Lee2 1 3 4 4 11 8 12 13 10 12 11 10 r. Bill Cosby.................. 1 1 2 3 6 22 13 16 13 5 10 4 2 s. Goldie Hawn ............. 1 1 1 1 3 12 8 18 21 11 13 7 2 t. Tom Brokaw.............. 2 1 2 3 5 18 13 15 14 5 5 8 7 u. Roseanne Arnold ....... 14 9 10 13 13 18 5 4 2 1 1 6 3 v. Connie Chung............ 1 1 2 2 4 19 14 18 16 6 6 7 3 w. Sean Connery ............ * 1 1 1 1 9 8 14 22 12 20 5 4 x. Cybill Shephard......... 1 1 1 2 3 15 11 19 19 7 5 11 6 y. Mary Tyler Moore ..... 2 1 2 2 5 20 15 15 13 5 5 10 4 z. Tiger Woods.............. * 1 2 2 2 12 9 16 21 15 16 3 3 aa. Richard Gere ............. 1 * 1 1 2 11 10 16 20 10 14 7 6


5. Please tell me whether you strongly agree, generally agree, generally disagree, or strongly disagree with each of the following statements. First…

Strongly Generally Generally Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Disagree DK

% % % % % a. There is a great deal of pressure on

women to stay youthful looking as they age................................................... 74 22 3 1 *

b. There is a great deal of pressure on men to stay youthful looking as they age .......................................................... 24 43 25 7 1

6. I am going to read two statements. When I have finished reading both, please tell me

which one you agree with more. First… Inner beauty is nice, but in the real world, physical beauty is what

really counts ...............................................................................35% OR Physical beauty is nice, but in the real world, inner beauty is what

really counts ...............................................................................60% Both count equally (vol.)..............................................................2% Neither count at all (vol.) .............................................................1% Don’t know (vol.) .........................................................................1%


ASK Q.7 IN VERSION X ONLY: 7. I am going to read three statements. When I have finished reading all three, please tell

me which one you agree with most. First… As men age, they usually get more distinguished looking. But

as women age, they usually just get older looking .....................30% OR As women age, they usually get more distinguished looking.

But as men age, they usually just get old looking ........................6% OR Men and women are equally likely to grow distinguished

looking as they age; they are also equally likely to just get old looking........................................................................................62%

Don’t know (vol.) .........................................................................2%


ASK EVERYONE (QS. 8-10): 8. Using the same 0-to-10 point scale we used a few questions back to rate celebrities,

where a “perfect 10” is extremely attractive, 0 is extremely unattractive, and 5 is average, how would you rate your own overall appearance?

0............................................................................... * 1............................................................................... * 2............................................................................1% 3............................................................................1% 4............................................................................3% 5..........................................................................27% 6..........................................................................17% 7..........................................................................24% 8..........................................................................17% 9............................................................................4% 10..........................................................................3% Don’t know...........................................................2% 9. At what age do you think you reached—or will reach—your peak, in terms of physical

attractiveness? 18-24...................................................................11% 25-34...................................................................29% 35-44...................................................................25% 45-54...................................................................14% 55-64.....................................................................7% 65+........................................................................5% Refused.................................................................8% 10. On an average day, do you think you look young, middle-aged, or old? Young.................................................................48% [SKIP TO Q.13] Middle-aged .......................................................44% [ASK Q.11, THEN SKIP TO Q.13] Old........................................................................7% [ASK Q.11 AND Q.12] Don’t know...........................................................1% [SKIP TO Q.13]


ASK Q.11 IF LOOK “MIDDLE-AGED” (2) OR “OLD” (3) IN Q.10:

11. At about what age do you think you started looking middle-aged? 18-24.....................................................................4% 25-34...................................................................10% 35-44...................................................................29% 45-54...................................................................34% 55-64...................................................................17% 65+........................................................................5% Refused.................................................................2%

ASK Q.12 IF LOOK “OLD” (3) IN Q.10: 12. At about what age do you think you started looking old? 18-24.....................................................................4% 25-34.....................................................................3% 35-44...................................................................11% 45-54...................................................................12% 55-64...................................................................25% 65+......................................................................36% Refused.................................................................9%


ASK EVERYONE (QS. 13-17): 13. I’m going to read the names of some general parts of your body. For each one, please

tell me whether you are very satisfied with the way it looks, somewhat satisfied, somewhat dissatisfied, or very dissatisfied. First…

Some- Some- Very what what Very DK/ Satisfied Satisfied Dissatis Dissatis Refused

% % % % %

a. Hair ....................................... 46 38 9 5 1 b. Facial features ....................... 45 49 5 * 1 c. Neck...................................... 48 43 6 2 2 d. Skin ....................................... 49 40 8 2 1 e. Upper body; that is, above the waist ................................ 32 51 13 3 1 f. Lower body; that is, the waist and below .................... 32 44 17 6 1 14. Here are some words that may or may not describe the way you feel about your body

as it matures. For each one, please tell me whether it describes the way you feel very well, fairly well, not very well, or not at all. First…

Not Very Fairly Very Not at DK/ Well Well Well all Refused

% % % % %

a. Philosophical......................... 30 41 12 12 6 b. Happy.................................... 51 40 5 2 1 c. Disappointed .......................... 6 18 31 44 1 d. Pleased .................................. 40 48 9 3 1 e. Resigned ............................... 18 33 18 25 6 f. Fascinated ............................. 24 32 20 20 3 g. Depressed............................... 6 12 26 55 1 h. Accepting.............................. 50 42 6 2 1 i. Afraid..................................... 5 13 27 54 1


15. For each of the following, please tell me whether you are currently doing it, have done it in the past but aren’t doing it now, or have never done it. First…

Currently Past Never DK/Ref.

% % % % a. Maintained a regular exercise routine........................................ 49 33 18 * b. Used hair coloring to hide gray . 19 9 71 * c. Used cosmetics to cover up age marks or other signs of aging .... 13 5 82 * d. Used skin products such as Retin-A to reduce or prevent wrinkles ...................................... 8 6 86 * e. Gone an a weight-loss or weight-reducing diet.................. 17 37 47 * f. Used hair replenishing lotions such as Monoxidil or Rogain ..... 2 2 96 * g. Had elective cosmetic surgery

of any kind, including facial, body, or hair transplant/implant surgery........................................ 1 3 96 *

h. Maintained a healthful, well-balanced diet ..................... 64 21 15 * i. Had a facial................................. 6 18 76 * j. Had a chemical peel or

dermabrasian .............................. 1 2 95 1 k. Had a temporary cosmetic procedure, such as collagen or botox injections...................... 1 1 98 *


16. For each of the following, please tell me whether you think you definitely will do it in the future, probably will do it, probably will not do it, or definitely will not do it in the future. First…

Def. Probably Probably Def. Will Will Will Not Will Not DK

% % % % % a. Maintain a regular exercise routine........................................ 46 40 9 5 1 b. Use hair coloring to hide gray ... 20 20 17 41 1 c. Use cosmetics to cover up age marks or other signs of aging .... 13 22 19 45 1 d. Use skin products such as Retin-A to reduce or prevent wrinkles ...................................... 7 19 26 47 1 e. Go on a weight-loss or weight-reducing diet.................. 16 39 21 23 1 f. Use hair-replenishing lotions such as Monoxidil or Rogain ..... 3 8 27 61 1 g. Have elective cosmetic

surgery of any kind, including facial, body, or hair transplant/implant surgery.......... 3 7 22 68 1

h. Maintain a healthful, well-balanced diet ..................... 56 35 5 3 1 i. Get a facial ................................ 12 25 19 42 1 j. Get a chemical peel or

dermabrasian .............................. 2 6 24 67 2 k. Have a temporary cosmetic procedure, such as collagen or botox injections...................... 2 3 20 75 1


These next questions focus on elective cosmetic surgery. Before we start, let me read a brief description of what I mean by cosmetic surgery, just to make sure we are talking about the same thing. Elective cosmetic surgery is performed when a person wants to change or enhance his or her physical appearance. It is not usually paid for by insurance because it is not done for medical reasons. These surgeries can be performed on the body or the face. They include such things as liposuction, tummy tucks, face lifts, “nose jobs,” and breast implants, among others. For our purposes, hair transplants are also considered an elective cosmetic surgery procedure. We are not asking about plastic surgery that is done for medical purposes to restore form or function to a body part that is abnormal or disfigured due to trauma, cancer, birth defects, or surgery. 17. First, without meaning to stereotype, would you say there are typical kinds of people

who get cosmetic surgery, or would you say there are not typical kinds of people who get it?

Yes, there are..........................................................65% No, there are not .....................................................29% Don’t know..............................................................6%

IF “YES” IN Q.17(1), ASK 18. ALL OTHERS SKIP TO INSTRUCTION BEFORE Q.19:

18. And how would you describe the typical kinds of people who get cosmetic surgery, in

terms of their age, gender, socio-economic status, personality, and so forth? Is there any other way you would describe them?

___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________

Refused................................................................... X Don’t know............................................................. Y


ASK Q.19 IN VERSION Y ONLY: 19. I am going to read two statements. After I have finished reading both, please tell me

which one you agree with more. First… In principle, people should be happy with who they are and

not get elective cosmetic surgery ...............................................37% OR In principle, if someone is not happy with how they look,

there’s nothing wrong with their getting elective cosmetic surgery........................................................................................59%

Don’t know...................................................................................4%


ASK EVERYONE (QS. 20-21): 20. Please tell me whether you strongly agree, generally agree, generally disagree, or

strongly disagree with each of the following statements. First… Strongly Generally Generally Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Disagree DK % % % % %

a. Most women who get cosmetic

surgery to look younger are more vain than the average woman ............................ 39 36 16 5 4

b. Most women who get cosmetic surgery to look younger are more insecure about themselves than the average woman .......................................... 45 34 13 5 3

c. Most men who get cosmetic surgery to look younger are more vain than the average man ......................................... 43 33 13 7 4

d. Most men who get cosmetic surgery to look younger are more insecure about themselves than the average man ............................................................ 46 32 12 6 3

e. All things being equal, women who get cosmetic surgery to look younger have professional advantages over women their age who just age naturally ..................................................... 28 38 21 10 3

f. All things being equal, men who get cosmetic surgery to look younger have professional advantages over men their age who just age naturally ......... 14 30 31 21 4

g. In general, it is more socially acceptable for a woman to get cosmetic surgery than for a man to get it ....................................................... 42 41 10 5 2


21. Do you know anyone who has ever had cosmetic surgery? He or she could be a family member, friend, or acquaintance.

Yes..........................................................................50% No...........................................................................49% Don’t know..............................................................1%

ASK QS. 21-24 IF KNOW SOMEONE WHO HAS HAD COSMETIC SURGERY IN Q.21(1).

ALL OTHERS, SKIP TO Q.26.

22. Thinking about the person you know who most recently had cosmetic surgery, to the

best of your knowledge, what procedure or procedures did they have done?

Breast augmentation ...............................................35% Breast reduction.......................................................6% Collagen injection ...................................................2% Eyelid surgery.........................................................11% Face Lift .................................................................25% Hair transplant/implant............................................2% Laser skin resurfacing/dermabrasian.......................3% Liposuction..............................................................9% Nose reshaping .......................................................14% Tummy tuck ............................................................9% Other........................................................................1% Don’t know..............................................................5%


23. Compared to before he or she had the surgery, would you say the surgery made this person look much better, somewhat better, somewhat worse, much worse, or did it make no real difference? If you didn’t know them before the surgery, just let me know.

Much better ............................................................21% Somewhat better.....................................................40% Somewhat worse .....................................................4% Much worse .............................................................2% No real difference........................ 24%[SKIP TO Q.25] Didn’t know them before the surgery......................6% [SKIP TO Q.25] Too early to tell (vol.) .............................................1% [SKIP TO Q.25] Don’t know..............................................................2% [SKIP TO Q.24]

ASK Q.24 IF “MUCH BETTER” (1) “SOMEWHAT BETTER” (2), “SOMEWHAT WORSE” (3) OR “MUCH WORSE” (4) IN Q.23.

ALL OTHERS SKIP TO Q.25. 24. Now when you see this person, are you more likely to think “they look [INSERT

RESPONSE FROM Q.23]” or to think “they look like they had cosmetic surgery?” Made person look different ..................................71% Look like they had cosmetic surgery......................20% Both (vol.) ...............................................................3% Neither (vol.) ...........................................................4% Don’t know..............................................................2% Made person look much better .............................82% Look like they had cosmetic surgery......................10% Both (vol.) ...............................................................2% Neither (vol.) ...........................................................3% Don’t know..............................................................3% Made person look somewhat better......................72% Look like they had cosmetic surgery......................19% Both (vol.) ...............................................................3% Neither (vol.) ...........................................................4% Don’t know..............................................................2% Made person look somewhat worse ......................23% Look like they had cosmetic surgery......................57% Both (vol.) ...............................................................5% Neither (vol.) ..........................................................13% Don’t know..............................................................2%


25. How has the cosmetic surgery affected your opinion of this person, if at all? Do you think much better of them as a person, somewhat better of them, somewhat worse of them, much worse of them, or has your opinion of them not been affected by their having had the surgery?

Much better .............................................................3% Somewhat better......................................................4% Somewhat worse .....................................................8% Much worse .............................................................2% Opinion not affected...............................................80% Don’t know..............................................................2%

ASK EVERYONE (QS. 26-27): 26. Imagine for a moment that, either now or some time in the future, someone close to

you wanted to get elective cosmetic surgery. For each of the following, do you think you would, on balance, strongly support their getting the surgery, generally support it, generally oppose it, or strongly oppose it? If an item doesn’t apply to you, just let me know.

Strongly Gen. Gen. Strongly Doesn’t Support Support Oppose Oppose Apply DK

% % % % % %

a. Your mother.................... 15 30 15 18 19 3 b. Your father...................... 11 26 15 18 26 3 c. Your spouse or significant other .............. 16 34 16 19 12 3 d. Your best friend .............. 18 45 16 12 4 4 e. An adult son.................... 13 33 18 19 14 3 f. An adult daughter............ 14 34 17 19 13 3


27. Regardless of whether or not you’ve ever done it, imagine for a moment that you could have any cosmetic surgery procedure done safely and for free—and that no one would know unless you told them. Please let me know which of the following procedures, if any, you would have done.

[ASK WOMEN ONLY:] Breast augmentation....10% Breast reduction.......................................................5% Collagen injection ...................................................3% Eyelid surgery..........................................................9% Face Lift .................................................................10% Hair transplant/implant............................................7% Laser skin resurfacing/dermabrasian......................10% Liposuction.............................................................14% Nose reshaping ........................................................7% Tummy tuck ...........................................................19% Some other procedure? ...........................................1% Or would you have no procedure done?.................46% Don’t know (vol.) ....................................................7%

ASK Q.28 IF “PROBABLY/DEFINITELY WILL NOT” HAVE COSMETIC SURGERY IN THE FUTURE—Q.16g (3 OR 4).

ALL OTHERS SKIP TO INSTRUCTION BEFORE Q.29.

28. Earlier you said you definitely or probably will not have any kind of cosmetic surgery

in the future. What are your primary reasons for saying this? Are there any other primary reasons you can think of?

___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________



ASK QS. 29 AND 30 IF “PROBABLY/DEFINITELY WILL” HAVE COSMETIC SURGERY IN THE FUTURE—Q.16g (1 OR 2).

ALL OTHERS SKIP TO INSTRUCTION BEFORE Q.31.

29. Earlier you said you definitely or probably will have some kind of cosmetic surgery in

the future. What procedure or procedures do you intend to have done? [ACCEPT MULTIPLE RESPONSES.]

Breast augmentation ...............................................12% Breast reduction.......................................................8% Collagen injection ...................................................2% Eyelid surgery.........................................................15% Face Lift .................................................................18% Hair transplant/implant............................................6% Laser skin resurfacing/dermabrasian......................12% Liposuction.............................................................12% Nose reshaping ........................................................7% Tummy tuck ...........................................................15% Remove unwanted hair............................................1% Remove/correct blemishes/scars .............................2% Penis enlargement ...................................................1% Treatment for varicose/spider veins ........................1% Breast lift .................................................................1% Neck lift……………………………………………1% Other ........................................................................ * Don’t know.............................................................20%

30. What are the primary reasons you probably or definitely will have cosmetic surgery some time in the future?

___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________



ASK QS. 31-36 IF HAVE HAD COSMETIC SURGERY IN THE “PAST”—Q15g (2).

ALL OTHERS SKIP TO D1. 31. Earlier you said you at one time had cosmetic surgery. What procedure or procedures

did you have done? [ACCEPT MULTIPLE RESPONSES.]

Breast augmentation ...............................................17% Breast reduction.......................................................8% Collagen injection ...................................................2% Eyelid surgery.........................................................19% Face Lift .................................................................10% Hair transplant/implant............................................3% Laser skin resurfacing/dermabrasian......................11% Liposuction............................................................... * Nose reshaping .......................................................15% Tummy tuck ............................................................8% Remove unwanted hair............................................4% Remove/correct blemishes/scars .............................3% Ears tucked ..............................................................2% Chin lift/tuck ...........................................................1% Other........................................................................3% Don’t know.............................................................11%

32. At what age did you have the [INSERT PROCEDURE(S) FROM Q.34] done? Under 20...................................................................................11% 20-29.........................................................................................24% 30-39.........................................................................................21% 40-49.........................................................................................18% 50-59..........................................................................................5%

60-69..........................................................................................2% 70+.............................................................................................2% Refused.....................................................................................18%


33. What are the primary reasons you had the cosmetic surgery? Are there any other

primary reasons you can think of? To feel better about myself/

give myself self confidence ................................12% Medical reasons..................................................10% To look better .....................................................16% Puffy/droopy eyes.................................................8% To fix nose............................................................6% Other...................................................................32% Don’t know.........................................................17%

34. Please tell me if you ever had a cosmetic surgery procedure that coincided with each of the following life events. If any of the following never happened to you, just let me know. First…

Never Yes No Happened DK

% % % %

a. A divorce .................................... 12 77 11 - b. A breakup with a girlfriend or boyfriend..................................... 20 72 8 - c. Death of a spouse or significant other ............................................ 13 77 6 3 d. Job search.................................... 17 74 9 - e. Birth of a child ............................ 11 79 9 - f. Wedding of your son or daughter 7 78 15 - g. School reunion ............................ 15 78 7 - h. Death of a parent.......................... 8 81 10 -


35. Now please tell me whether, as a result of your cosmetic surgery, each of the following statements describes you very well, fairly well, not very well, or not at all. If an item doesn’t apply to you, just let me know. First…

Very Fairly Not very Not at Doesn’t Well Well Well All Apply DK % % % % % % a. I am happy with the way I look... 62 26 5 - 5 2 b. I look younger than I used to ...... 23 25 11 25 15 2 c. I look sexier than I used to.......... 31 21 17 17 11 4 d. My spouse or partner is happier with my appearance ....... 37 23 4 8 26 2 e. I don’t feel self conscious about my appearance................... 47 24 7 12 10 - f. My chances for professional advancement have improved ...... 19 21 8 26 26 - g. I feel more desirable.................... 37 33 7 14 9 - h. I look the way I’ve always wanted to look............................. 27 42 14 8 7 2 i. I feel better about myself ............ 62 21 6 4 4 2


36. Please tell me whether each of the following statements is generally true or generally not true. First…

Not True True DK % % % a. Among those people who knew

I was going to have the surgery done, most said I “looked great” when they saw me after the procedure ................................................... 61 31 8

b. Of those people who did not know I was going to have the surgery done, most said I “looked great” even though they might not have known why........................ 53 37 10

c. Most people, when they meet me for the first time, can probably tell I had some cosmetic surgery ......................................... 9 88 3

d. After I had the surgery, I fibbed a little bit and told people I had it done for medical reasons ........................ 23 67 10


ASK EVERYONE (D1-D3): Now, I have just a few questions for statistical purposes... D1. What is your age? 18-24...................................................................14% 25-29.....................................................................9% 30-34.....................................................................8% 35-39...................................................................10% 40-44...................................................................12% 45-49...................................................................10% 50-54.....................................................................8% 55-59.....................................................................7% 60-64.....................................................................5% 65-69.....................................................................5% 70+......................................................................11% Refused.................................................................1% D2. What was the last level of education you completed? Less than high school ...........................................6% High school graduate..........................................25% Post high-school vocational training ....................4% Some college ......................................................27% College graduate.................................................26% Some post-graduate work.....................................4% Post-graduate degree ............................................9% Refused (vol.) .......................................................... * D3. Which of the following best describes your employment status? Work full-time....................................................55% [ASK D4] Work part-time ...................................................13% [ASK D4] Full-time homemaker ...........................................6% [SKIP TO D5] Unemployed, laid off, or

looking for work...................................................6% [SKIP TO D5] Retired ................................................................19% [SKIP TO D5] Refused (vol.) .......................................................1%


ASK IF WORK FULL- OR PART-TIME IN D3 (1 OR 2). ALL OTHERS SKIP TO D5.

D4. Are you in a senior, mid-level, or junior position at your place of work? Senior .................................................................32% Mid-level ............................................................38% Junior..................................................................22% Refused.................................................................8%

ASK EVERYONE (D5-D12): D5. Which one of the following best describes where you live? In a large city ..................................................................24% In a suburban area or town near a larger city..................33% In a smaller town not associated with a larger city.........24% In a rural area..................................................................19% Refused (vol.) ...................................................................1% D6. Which one of the following best describes you? Married ...........................................................................53% Living with a steady partner, but not married ..................8% Have a steady partner, but don’t live with him/her ........11% Single without a steady partner ......................................27% Refused (vol.) ...................................................................1%


D7. Have you ever been… Divorced .............................................................25% Separated ..............................................................3% Widowed ..............................................................9% None of the above (vol.).....................................64% Refused (vol.) .......................................................1% D8. What do you consider to be your racial or ethnic background? White/Caucasian.................................................80% Black /African American......................................9% Asian/Pacific Islander...........................................2% Hispanic................................................................4% Native American ..................................................2% Multi-racial...........................................................1% Other:....................................................................... * Refused (vol.) .......................................................2% D9. Do you consider yourself Hispanic or Latino? Yes........................................................................7% No.......................................................................92% Refused.................................................................1%


D10. I am going to read a list of income ranges. Please stop me when I reach the category that contains your current annual pre-tax household income. We need this information for statistical purposes only.

Less than $10,000.................................................7% $10,000 to $19,999.............................................11% $20,000 to $29,999.............................................13% $30,000 to $39,999.............................................13% $40,000 to $49,999.............................................12% $50,000 to $74,999.............................................17% $75,000 to $99,999...............................................9% $100,000 to $149,000...........................................5% $150,000 to $199,999...........................................1% $200,000 or more .................................................2% Refused (vol.) .....................................................11% D11. How many telephone numbers are there in this household where YOU can be

reached? Please do not include cell phones or lines that are used ONLY for a computer or modem, or those that are used ONLY by some other household member.

One line ..............................................................79% Two lines ............................................................15% Three lines ............................................................3% Four lines..............................................................1% Five lines ................................................................. * More than 5 lines..................................................... * Refused.................................................................1%


D12. At the beginning of the survey, I mentioned that it is being conducted for a major magazine. The people who are writing the article based on the survey results would welcome the opportunity to talk more in depth with some of the people taking this survey. Your participation would be completely voluntary. Would you be willing to talk to one of the writers?

[IF ASKED ABOUT CONFIDENTIALITY, READ:] If you agree to be further interviewed, please remember that this survey is being

conducted by Roper Starch Worldwide, which is not in any way associated with the magazine. All answers you provided today will be held strictly confidential by Roper Starch Worldwide, and will not even be seen by any writer who would call you, if you consent. Again, would you be willing to talk to one of the writers?

Yes........................................................................... 1 [RECORD INFO. BELOW] No............................................................................ 2 [READ SIGN-OFF] [READ SIGN-OFF:] Those are all of my questions. Thanks very much for your time and participation—it is greatly appreciated. [INTERVIEWER ADD:] STATE: ___ ___ Respondent Name: ____________________________________________________

Best time to be reached: ________________________________________________

Phone #: _____________________________________________________________

Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery

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Transcript of Public Attitudes Toward Aging, Beauty, and Cosmetic Surgery